How Independent is Too Independent?

While I am a presbyter in the Independent Catholic/Old Catholic tradition, I often worry that our mentality is too independent and too negative.  We define ourselves in terms of what we are not.  We do not believe in papal infallibility or the universal jurisdiction of the pope.  We do not believe in certain Marian dogmas.  We do not believe in certain ecclesial structures.  We do not….  Moreover, we would rather have small jurisdictions assert independence from larger churches so that our views are more readily affirmed.  We would rather be in a small like-minded community rather than create intentional communities within a larger church.  I fear that our churches and jurisdictions are impoverished by these decisions.

Yes, we can set up elaborate chapels in our homes and livestream masses, but does it really change the world?  I am not saying that the liturgy is not important but maybe a jurisdiction should have one livestream mass and promote it well rather than livestream four masses of lesser quality.  Maybe multiple jurisdictions could work together and take a turn livestreaming a mass on a rotating basis.  We could work together to create a website that could be shared among jurisdictions.  This website could include all the resources we need from catechisms to Scripture studies, to liturgical resources.  Imagine our jurisdictions coming together to have a virtual RCIA. 

Sadly, we think that we in the parish or jurisdiction level have to do it all. I think many of our jurisdictions are too small and ill-equipped to do these things. Would we rather be kings of our own bathrooms or a servant in a structure that is impacting the lives of others?  We need to get away with the idea that we must do it all.  We simply cannot for a variety of reasons including time, skill, finances, and other resources.

Rather than trying to do it all, we need to collaborate with others in the ISM movement.  Furthermore, we need to collaborate with others outside the movement who are doing incredible work.  For instance, I love the work that Austin is doing at Gospel Simplicity.  He has many excellent videos that the ISM movement can use to equip clergy and laity with serious theological inquiry.  While Austin is Protestant in outlook, he looks for insights from Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant theologians.  I believe his focus has a broad appeal and that is why believers from multiple faith traditions watch his videos.  Simply put, the quality and content of his videos is greater than we can match.  Maybe we do not have to reinvent the wheel but can partner with ministries such as Gospel Simplicity to share the Good News with others.  Austin’s newly released video “I'm Protestant. People Tell Me My Channel Made Them Catholic/Orthodox.” Illustrates the common Christian inheritance we share.  Being in the ISM movement allows a return to “mere Christianity” and the ability to draw insights from Protestantism, Catholicism, and Orthodoxy.  If you have a few minutes watch his latest video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tg0FEuJ_Y6M

I understand why we are called the Independent Sacramental Movement.  Our jurisdictions pride themselves on being independent from larger institutions.  Ultimately, the Christian message is not an institution but a relationship with the God who loves us.  I am always wanting to partner with others to preach the Good News.  As it is, Christianity is far too divided to credibly witness to what God has done in Jesus Christ.  Can we work together and recognize our common dignity as a believer and a member of God’s household?

Peace,

Ben