Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Formation of Saint John Chrysostom American National Catholic Church

The American National Catholic Church (ANCC) has announced the formation of a new parish-in-formation: Saint John Chrysostom American National Catholic Church, located in New York City. Under the guidance of The Most Reverend George Lucey, Presiding Bishop of the ANCC, this new faith community will be shepherded by Fr. Luis Octavio and his wife, Patricia, an ANCC catechist.

The formation of Saint John Chrysostom American National Catholic Church is a testament to the ANCC's commitment to a contemporary expression of Catholicism, rooted in the traditions of Bishop Carlos Duarte-Costa of Brazil and the teachings of the Second Vatican Council. This new parish embodies the ANCC's dedication to social action and inclusivity, embracing the ordination of married, female, and LGBTQ+ clergy, full sacramental participation for all, and the support for gay marriage and family planning. Although it was not mentioned in the announcement I saw, I believe this will be primarily a Spanish-language parish. 

Saint John Chrysostom, the namesake of this new parish, was renowned for his eloquent preaching and advocacy for social justice. It is in this spirit that the Saint John Chrysostom American National Catholic Church will seek to bear witness to the all-inclusive love at the heart of the Catholic Church. Bishop George Lucey has shared that he prays that this new faith community will mirror the all-inclusive love of God made manifest in the Body of Christ, the Church, and extend that love to everyone they encounter.