Welcome to the website of the American National Catholic Church (ANCC). When people refer to Catholics today, they often mean Roman Catholics but there are many other types of Catholics. Some are associated with cultural groups like Byzantine Catholics or Polish National Catholics, while others, such as Old Catholics, span all cultures. While some groups are in union with Rome, others have their own bishops, as is the tradition of the Orthodox churches. We have seen many such independently governed churches since the beginning.

 

During much of the first eleven hundred years after Jesus, there were many self-governing national churches. There were many differences, everything from the way the Mass and sacraments were celebrated, to the date of Easter and rules concerning celibacy.

 

Even today, the Eastern and Western churches have many externals that are vastly different, yet all celebrate the same sacraments and scripture. The National churches of today can be traced, in part, to ongoing disagreements over papal supremacy in the 11th century resulting in a schism with the Eastern Church, reaction to the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century and the proclamation of papal infallibility in the 19th century, which created further division. All of these events speak to the confusion of unity with uniformity.

 

The ANCC is a contemporary expression of an ancient faith. There is a firm commitment to the sacraments, and we embrace the 2nd edition translation of the mass of Vatican II that is revered by so many in the Americas.

 

We are also guided by the Spirit as a community which embraces a broader faith where all are welcomed and affirmed. We understand the importance of loving and supporting each other, while continually challenging ourselves to embrace the Gospel calling of Jesus Christ.

 

As members of the American National Catholic Church, we are part of a community that embraces both the rich tradition of Catholic faith and the call to be inclusive, compassionate, and justice-oriented in today’s world. Our Church has a unique role in witnessing to the fullness of the Gospel, offering a home to those who may have felt marginalized or excluded in other settings. We affirm the dignity of all people, and this commitment shapes our mission to be a welcoming, inclusive Church.

 

The ANCC’s tradition of openness and pastoral care allows us to engage with the world in a way that reflects Christ’s radical hospitality. In the face of political unrest and social challenges, we respond not with fear or division but with a deep and abiding trust in the transformative power of love and justice. Our Church’s commitment to social justice and inclusivity calls us to act with boldness and humility, seeking the common good and standing in solidarity with the oppressed and vulnerable.

 

As part of the ANCC, we are especially equipped to be a voice of peace and reconciliation. Our tradition encourages dialogue and respect, even in disagreement, reminding us that the heart of our faith is love—love for God, for our neighbors, and for those who may differ from us. This unique role places us at the forefront of promoting justice, equality, and unity in a world that desperately needs it.