1. What is the Independent Sacramental Movement?

The Independent Sacramental Movement (ISM) is a family of Christian communities that preserve the sacramental life of the ancient Church—especially the Eucharist, Baptism, and the other sacraments—outside the direct jurisdiction of large institutional churches such as Rome, Constantinople, or Canterbury.

These communities are typically small, local, and self-governing, but remain rooted in apostolic succession and the Catholic and Orthodox tradition. They exist to make the sacraments accessible to all who seek them in faith.

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2. Are ISM sacraments valid?

Yes. Most ISM jurisdictions trace their apostolic succession through Old Catholic, Orthodox, or Anglican lineages recognized historically as valid.
While some larger churches may consider ISM clergy “illicit” (not in canonical communion with them), the sacraments themselves are sacramentally valid when celebrated by a validly ordained priest or bishop with proper intention, matter, and form.

In other words: our sacraments work because God is faithful.

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3. Is the ISM a denomination?

Not exactly. The ISM is not a single denomination but a network of independent jurisdictions, missions, and communities. Each has its own leadership, liturgical style, and mission focus, but all share the sacramental life and apostolic heritage of the undivided Church.

Think of it as a communion of communions—diverse yet united by faith, tradition, and the work of the Holy Spirit.

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4. How is the ISM different from the Roman Catholic Church?

The ISM shares the same creeds, sacraments, and apostolic ministry as the Roman Church but differs in governance and pastoral application.
Most ISM jurisdictions:

• Do not require celibacy for clergy.

• Welcome all genders to holy orders.

• Invite all baptized Christians to the sacraments.

• Emphasize freedom of conscience and local pastoral autonomy.

The ISM does not define itself against Rome or Orthodoxy—it seeks to live the same ancient faith in a more accessible and inclusive form.

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5. Why are there so many ISM jurisdictions?

Historically, the ISM grew through missionary expansion, theological diversity, and pastoral independence. Many bishops formed small jurisdictions to meet specific pastoral needs or to embody particular emphases—traditional liturgy, inclusive ministry, chaplaincy, or ecumenical outreach.

While this diversity can seem confusing, it also reflects the creative vitality of a movement led by local mission rather than central bureaucracy.

The challenge is to balance freedom with communion—and that’s exactly what IndependentSacramental.org seeks to encourage.

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6. What does “apostolic succession” mean?

Apostolic succession is the unbroken line of episcopal ordination going back to the apostles.
In the ISM, this is taken very seriously. Each bishop has received the laying on of hands from validly consecrated bishops whose lineage traces to the historic Catholic and Orthodox Churches.

Succession is not simply a pedigree—it’s a sign of continuity in faith, worship, and sacramental grace.

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7. How can I find an ISM community near me?

Visit our ISM Directory to find jurisdictions and communities in your region.
Many ISM clergy also offer online liturgies, spiritual direction, or home-based celebrations for those without a local parish.
If none exist nearby, consider exploring the House-Church and Micro-Parish Model to begin a small community under pastoral guidance.

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8. What is a “house-church” or “micro-parish”?

A house-church is a small Christian community that gathers in homes for prayer, fellowship, and the Eucharist—just like the early Church.
A micro-parish is a small, locally focused ministry connected to a wider jurisdiction or ordinariate.

These models are central to the ISM’s mission: to make the sacraments accessible, personal, and sustainable.
 

9. How do ISM clergy receive training?

Training varies by jurisdiction but generally includes:

• Formal study in theology, Scripture, and sacramental practice.

• Supervised ministry and mentoring.

• Ongoing spiritual and pastoral formation.

Many clergy come from other Christian traditions with previous seminary education or ministry experience.
IndependentSacramental.org provides formation materials and clergy resources to strengthen this preparation across the movement.

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10. Can I become a priest or deacon in the ISM?

Yes, if you have a sincere vocation and proper formation.
Each jurisdiction has its own discernment and ordination process.
IndependentSacramental has a number of resources devoted to vocational discernment.

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11. Is the ISM ecumenical?

Very much so.
We affirm the work of God’s Spirit in all Christian communities and welcome cooperation with Roman Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican, Protestant, and other traditions.
Many ISM clergy serve in ecumenical chaplaincies, interfaith settings, or social ministries that embody the unity of Christ’s people beyond denominational walls.

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12. Is there a central authority or pope?

No.
The ISM is conciliar rather than monarchical.
Each jurisdiction governs itself under the pastoral care of its bishops and clergy, often in collaboration with others.
The movement values mutual recognition, dialogue, and voluntary communion rather than coercive control.

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13. What are the main challenges of the ISM?

The ISM faces real challenges:

• Fragmentation among jurisdictions.

• Limited financial and institutional resources.

• Public misunderstanding and misrepresentation.

However, these challenges are balanced by extraordinary grace, creativity, and dedication among clergy and laity.
IndependentSacramental.org exists to address these issues by fostering education, accountability, and unity.

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14. How is the ISM funded?

Most ISM clergy are bivocational, supporting themselves through secular work. Communities are typically sustained by the freewill offerings of their members.
 

15. How can I support or get involved?

• Pray for unity and renewal within the ISM.

• Share our resources and videos with others.

• Volunteer your skills (writing, tech, music, teaching) to strengthen local ministries.

• Offer financial support if you are able.

• Most of all—live the Gospel fully where you are.

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Closing Thought

The Independent Sacramental Movement is not a protest—it is a promise:
that the grace of God remains free, abundant, and near to all who seek it.