Notice advising faithful of R.I. ‘churches’ not affiliated with Roman Catholic Church

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PROVIDENCE — The Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence occasionally issues an advisory regarding some local “churches” that appear to be Roman Catholic but are not, thus causing considerable confusion for our parish priests and their parishioners. It is especially problematic when Catholics approach these “churches” for the Sacrament of Matrimony. Therefore, for the benefit of the faithful of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence, we provide this additional clarification regarding specifically:

“AMERICAN OLD CATHOLIC CHURCH”

(134 Park Avenue, Cranston)

“ST. THERESE OLD CATHOLIC CHURCH”

(1500 Main Street, West Warwick)

“CHURCH OF THE HOLY PARACLETE”

(155 Douglas Avenue, Providence)

“ST. PATRICK CHURCH”

(2068 Cranston Street, Cranston)

And, in nearby Connecticut, “OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARITAS MONASTERY”

(54 Seckar Road, Ashford, CT)

Each is outside of the full communion of the Roman Catholic Church, and therefore, none is affiliated with the Roman Catholic bishops or with Pope Francis.

Therefore, except for the Sacrament of Baptism, any sacrament received in these “churches” is invalid. Weddings involving at least one Catholic spouse that are celebrated in these “churches” are also invalid, and would require a validation (blessing) in the Roman Catholic Church.

Many of these “churches” and their “priests” look legitimate. Some even use the name “Catholic” and many of their clergy have advanced degrees from Catholic colleges and universities. However, please be wary of any church/institution that promotes itself:

1. Using slogans such as “different kind of Catholic” or “outside the Roman Catholic Church”;

2. With insignia or wording in advertisements that support the “LGBT community”.

**Many Catholics engaged to marry are approaching these local “churches” because they promise a quicker and less-cumbersome marriage preparation process. Unfortunately, the couples only realize later that the Roman Catholic Church does not recognize these marriages as valid.

Engaged couples should be especially careful. If there is any doubt regarding the status of a “church” or individual “priest,” the couple should request a Letter of Good Standing from the “priest.” A Letter of Good Standing is a standard church-letter, and bears the signature of the priest’s bishop or religious superior. It should also be recently-dated and bear the raised seal of the priest’s diocese or religious order.**

Anyone needing clarification for any “church” or “priest” or institution, should contact the diocesan Office of the Chancellor at 401-278- 4663 or at treilly@dioceseofprovidence.org to verify its status and affiliation with the Roman Catholic Church.