✦ Understanding Our Tradition
Independent Catholicism
A comprehensive guide to the history, theology, and practice of Independent Catholicism, and what it means to be part of a community rooted in apostolic succession and ancient tradition.
What is Independent Catholicism?
Independent Catholicism represents a distinct expression of Catholic faith that maintains apostolic succession and sacramental theology while operating independently from the Roman Catholic Church. Part of the broader Independent Sacramental Movement, Independent Catholic communities worldwide share a commitment to the ancient traditions of the Church while exercising local autonomy in governance and pastoral practice. We honor the Pope as the First Among Equals—the historic seat of Peter and symbol of unity—just as the Orthodox patriarchates and autocephalous churches do, but we do not accept papal jurisdiction or centralized authority.
At Magdalene House, we are part of the Ascension Alliance, an international communion of Independent Catholic communities united by shared theology, mutual recognition, and apostolic succession. Our bishops, Archbishop ALAN (Kemp) and Bishop HILDEGARD (Longoni), provide pastoral oversight while respecting the autonomy of our local community.
Unlike Roman Catholicism, which is centralized under papal authority, Independent Catholicism emphasizes the principle of subsidiarity—the idea that decisions should be made at the most local level possible. This allows communities to respond to the needs of their people while maintaining connection to the broader Catholic tradition. We share the same liturgy, theology, and spirituality as Eastern Catholics in communion with Rome and the Orthodox churches, but we exercise our autonomy in pastoral matters such as married clergy, women's ordination, divorce and remarriage, and LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Historical Roots & Development
The Independent Catholic movement emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a response to various ecclesiastical and theological concerns. Some communities formed to preserve liturgical traditions, others to address pastoral issues, and still others to create space for theological exploration within the Catholic framework.
What unites all legitimate Independent Catholic communities is the principle of apostolic succession—an unbroken line of episcopal ordination tracing back to the apostles through valid sacramental transmission. This ensures that our sacraments (Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Ordination) are recognized as valid and efficacious within the Catholic tradition.
Today, Independent Catholic communities serve diverse populations and contexts—from traditional liturgical communities to those emphasizing social justice, LGBTQ+ inclusion, married clergy, and women in ministry. What we share is a commitment to authentic Catholic faith and practice, rooted in Scripture, Tradition, and the teachings of the Church Fathers.
Understanding Apostolic Succession
Apostolic succession is the theological principle that bishops are successors of the apostles, with authority and responsibility passed down through the laying on of hands (ordination) in an unbroken chain since apostolic times. This ensures the continuity of the Church's mission and the validity of sacraments.
At Magdalene House, our bishops trace their apostolic succession through both Eastern and Western lines, ensuring our sacraments are recognized as valid within the broader Catholic tradition. This is not merely a technical matter—it represents our connection to the apostles, to the early Church, and to the communion of saints across centuries and continents.
Independent Catholic Theology & Practice
Independent Catholic communities maintain the core doctrines of Catholic faith: the Trinity, the Incarnation, the Redemption, the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist, and the seven sacraments. We affirm the creeds of the early Church and honor the theological heritage of the Church Fathers.
Sacramental Life
We celebrate all seven sacraments with reverence and accessibility. Our commitment to open communion means that all baptized Christians are welcome to receive the Eucharist, and our reconciliation ministry emphasizes healing and restoration rather than judgment.
Liturgical Tradition
At Magdalene House, we celebrate the Divine Liturgy in the Eastern rite, drawing from the ancient traditions of the Eastern Church. This liturgy, rooted in apostolic practice, connects us to centuries of prayer and worship.
Inclusive Ministry
Independent Catholicism creates space for pastoral flexibility. We welcome LGBTQ+ people fully into all aspects of community life, including ordained ministry. We also welcome married clergy and women in leadership roles.
Community Autonomy
Each Independent Catholic community discerns its own pastoral priorities while remaining in communion with the broader tradition. This allows us to respond authentically to the needs of our people and context.
Independent vs. Roman Catholicism
While Independent Catholicism shares the core faith and sacramental theology of Roman Catholicism, there are important differences in governance, pastoral practice, and theological emphasis:
Decentralized, autonomous communities
Centralized under papal authority
Permitted and encouraged
Celibacy required (with rare exceptions)
Women may be ordained
Male-only ordained ministry
Full inclusion and affirmation
Limited inclusion, traditional teaching
No papal jurisdiction
Pope as head of Church
Diverse traditions (Eastern, Western)
Roman rite (with some variation)
Why Choose Independent Catholicism?
People are drawn to Independent Catholicism for many reasons. Some seek the beauty and depth of Catholic tradition without the constraints of Roman hierarchical authority. Others have been hurt by the institutional Church and find healing in a community that prioritizes pastoral care over institutional power. Still others are drawn by our explicit commitment to inclusion, justice, and authentic community.
Authentic Inclusion
All people are welcome—no exceptions, no asterisks. LGBTQ+ people, divorced people, people with diverse beliefs and backgrounds.
Deep Tradition
We maintain the riches of Catholic faith and practice while exercising pastoral wisdom and compassion in application.
Real Community
Small enough to know each other, large enough to sustain ministry. Decisions made by and for the people we serve.
Magdalene House: An Independent Catholic Community
Magdalene House embodies the best of Independent Catholicism. We are rooted in apostolic succession and sacramental theology. We celebrate the Divine Liturgy in the Eastern rite, drawing from the ancient traditions of the Eastern Church. We maintain the fullness of Catholic faith while exercising pastoral flexibility and compassion.
Most importantly, we are explicitly open and affirming. We welcome all people—regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or background—into the fullness of sacramental life and community. This is not a concession or an afterthought. It is central to who we are and how we understand the Gospel.
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