INSIDE OLD CATHOLIC

By †Gabriel Obiano, D.D. When the Church speaks with authority on matters of faith and morals, she does so not from the wisdom of men, but from the living presence of Christ, who promised, “He who hears you, hears Me.” (Luke 10:16). This living voice of the Church, teaching and guarding the faith, is what we call the Magisterium—a term that means “teaching authority.” But what exactly is the Magisterium, and why does it matter for the life of every believer? To understand this sacred office, we must trace its roots to the very heart of the Church’s mission and the enduring guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Meaning and Origin of the Magisterium The word Magisterium comes from the Latin magister, meaning “teacher.” The Church’s Magisterium is, therefore, the official teaching authority entrusted by Christ to the apostles and their successors—the bishops. It is not a group of scholars debating theology, nor is it a mere institutional voice. Rather, it is a sacred trust, a ministry that ens...

By Dr. h.c. Miracle Gabriel-Ooc The Sacred Heart of Jesus Charismatic Old Catholic Church is part of a global Old Catholic communion—an Independent Catholic Church that is not affiliated with, nor answerable to, the See of Rome. Its mother church is in the United States, rooted in the movement of bishops who, after the First Vatican Council of 1870, separated from Rome in response to new doctrinal definitions, particularly papal infallibility. This Church does not submit to the jurisdiction of the Roman Pontiff, nor is it bound by the Canons or Catechism of the Roman Catholic Church. Its identity and validity do not depend on external validation from Rome or any other jurisdiction. Instead, it stands firmly on the foundation of Christ Himself, who is the head of the Church (Colossians 1:18). While Old Catholics respect Rome as primus inter pares (“first among equals”), they do not subject themselves to Roman authority in matters of theology, faith, or practice. They hold to a unique ex...