Understanding Old Catholics: Separating Fact from Fiction

By Bishop Gabriel Obiano, D.D.

When people use terms like "fake" or "impersonators" to describe Old Catholics, it often stems from one of three places: a lack of knowledge, misinformation, or a refusal to consider the historical facts about Old Catholicism. We need to focus on the rich history and theological tradition of the Old Catholic Church.

A Bigger Picture of the Catholic Church

Many consider the word "Catholic" is automatically synonymous with "Roman Catholic." We should know the Catholic Church is more like a vast, ancient tree with many branches. The Church in Rome, also known as the Roman Catholic Church and headed by the Pope, is one of those branches. Historically, it is clear there are other major Catholic Sees, including Jerusalem, Constantinople, Alexandria, and Antioch. Although some of these traditions are not in communion with the See of Rome, they are considered part of the broader Catholic family.

The Origins of the Old Catholic Church

The term Old Catholic originated in the 19th century. In 1870, the First Vatican Council was convened by the Roman Catholic Church. During this council, two dogmas were officially promulgated: the infallibility of the Pope when speaking ex cathedra (from the chair) on matters of faith and morals, and the universal jurisdiction of the Pope over the entire Church. A number of bishops and theologians found these new dogmas to be in opposition to the traditional teachings and practices of the early Church. They believed these dogmas elevated the Pope's authority beyond what was historically understood.

Their rejection of these specific dogmas did not mean a rejection of their Catholic faith. Instead, they sought to preserve what they saw as the original or old faith of the Church. The name "Old Catholic" was adopted to signify this steadfastness to the apostolic and patristic traditions before these new dogmas were declared. It does not mean "outdated" or "ancient" but rather "original." Therefore, Old Catholics see themselves as upholding the authentic teachings that have been handed down since the time of the Apostles.

Theological and Sacramental Continuity

The perception that Old Catholics are "impersonating" Roman Catholics is inaccurate. Old Catholics maintain the same seven sacraments and liturgical traditions as the Roman Catholic Church, not because they are copying them, but because these sacraments are part of the shared, ancient faith. These sacraments—Baptism, Confirmation, the Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony—are not the exclusive property of any single denomination. They are for all who practice the faith and traditions handed down by the Apostles. As the saying goes, "no one has a monopoly on faith."

An African Perspective on Misinformation

In many parts of Africa, members of the Roman Catholic Church sometimes spread misinformation about the Old Catholic Church, often through articles or online posts that misrepresent or label them as "fake." This can create confusion and division. The irony is that Old Catholics and Roman Catholics share a common belief in the core tenets of Christianity, including the authority of Christ, the sanctity of the sacraments, and the importance of apostolic succession.

Instead of working together, some individuals choose to condemn a group that holds the same foundational faith. This divisive behavior contradicts the spirit of unity and Christian love. As Jesus himself said, "Whoever is not against us is for us" (Mark 9:40). It seems a strange contradiction that one group of believers would be so hostile toward another group that professes the same faith and reverence for Christ.

A Shared Faith, a Different Path

Old Catholics are not "Catholic by accident." Their authenticity is rooted in a continuous line of apostolic succession, tracing their heritage back through the ancient Church. They uphold the faith that was handed down to them, preserving what they believe to be the true, unwatered-down teachings of the early Christians. So, when you hear about Old Catholics, remember that they are simply a different branch of the same Catholic tree, holding to a faith that is both deeply traditional and true to its ancient roots.

I've encountered many people who have never heard of the Old Catholic tradition and are learning about it for the first time. Their first question is often, "Are you saying the Catholic Church is not one?" This is where the misunderstanding begins. Not being one has nothing to do with being Old Catholic. The Body of Christ is One and the Old Catholics are part of that Body. The Old Catholics might be hand and the Roman Catholics might be leg.

As I often explain, the Catholic Church is like a great tree with many branches. Roman Catholics and Old Catholics are both part of that one tree, each serving as a distinct branch.

The most common question I receive is, "Do you submit to the Pope in Rome?" I remember a conversation in court premise where a well-meaning Roman Catholic gentleman was genuinely concerned to know the difference between the Roman Catholic Church and the Old Catholics. My response is always simple and charitable: Old Catholics are not under the papal authority of the Pope. This distinct point is what defines the Old Catholic tradition.

However, with this explanation, some may take offense, finding it difficult to accept that one can be Catholic without being under the Pope. They might view such a claim as fake or impersonation.

Frankly speaking, the Old Catholic Church is under the direct authority of Christ. Its validity does not depend on Rome or the Pontiff. The true validity of the Old Catholic Church comes from Christ Himself, who founded His Church. No Catholic See or Pontiff can invalidate another See.

For a practical guide that brings sacramental theology to life, see our in-depth review of the Book of Solemn Blessings.