My Sisters and Brothers in Jesus Christ,

​

I am pleased to share a new little book, What Is Independent Catholicism? A Brief Guide to the Independent Catholic and Independent Sacramental Movement. One of the challenges facing our movement is that many people simply do not know who we are. They may encounter an independent priest at a wedding, funeral, baptism, hospital visit, worship service, or online and have no idea that Independent Catholic and Independent Sacramental communities even exist.

​

I believe we need welcoming and accessible materials that explain something about who we are without assuming that readers already understand our history, theology, or vocabulary. This book is meant to be a simple invitation. It introduces Independent Catholicism, explores where the movement came from, explains some of the beliefs and sacramental practices found among our communities, and offers guidance for those who may want to learn more or visit a community. Sometimes we simply need to be able to say, “Here is a little about who we are. You are welcome to learn more. Come and see.”

​

I have tried to keep the cost of the professionally printed edition on Amazon as low as possible so that clergy, missions, parishes, jurisdictions, and individuals can purchase copies to give away without creating a significant expense. I would love to see copies available at worship services, weddings, funerals, community events, or anywhere someone might first encounter Independent Catholicism. The printed edition is available here: What Is Independent Catholicism? on Amazon.

​

At the same time, I do not want cost to prevent anyone from reading or sharing the book. I have therefore created free digital files that you may read and share, along with a printable PDF designed so that communities can print and assemble their own copies on ordinary paper. If the free booklet helps your community welcome even one person, begin one conversation, or help someone discover sacramental Christianity, then it has accomplished its purpose.

​

To print the booklet:

• Print double-sided

• Select landscape orientation

• Flip on the short edge

• Print at actual size or 100%

• Do not select “booklet” or “two pages per sheet”—the PDF is already imposed

• Nest the six printed sheets together, fold them through the center, and staple along the fold

 

Independent Catholicism remains a small and often misunderstood part of the Christian family, but I believe we have something beautiful to offer: ancient faith, sacramental life, genuine community, and the hope of transformation in Jesus Christ. May this little book help us explain ourselves with humility and clarity, welcome those who are searching, and invite others to discover a part of the Christian family they may not have known was there.

​

Peace,

Rev. Ben Stern