Ancient Faith, Present Grace: A Catechism for Independent Old Catholics in America

Ancient faith is not a museum piece-it is living grace.
Ancient Faith, Present Grace is a catechism written for people exploring Independent Old Catholic churches in the United States-whether you are newly baptized, returning to Christian faith, recovering from a difficult church experience, or simply hungry for a catholic Christianity that is spiritually grounded, intellectually serious, and pastorally gentle.

This catechism introduces the heart of the Christian faith as Independent Old Catholics receive it: Scripture, the Creeds, the early Church, the sacraments, prayer, moral formation, healing, and mission. It is written in full chapters inviting readers to slow down, reflect, and pray their way into the faith jouney. Each chapter includes Scripture references for deeper study and closes with invitations to prayer and self-examination-because Christian belief engages the whole person and must lead to worship.

Independent Old Catholic life in America is a diverse landscape. This book speaks clearly about what is essential-while intentionally avoiding internal disputes where jurisdictions differ in theology or pastoral practice. The aim is unity in the Gospel: a shared catholic center rooted in the undivided Church, shaped by sacramental worship, and committed to accountable, Christlike ministry.

Inside you’ll find accessible chapters on:

• The Gospel and the human longing for God

• Revelation, Holy Scripture, Tradition, Creeds, and Councils

• The Trinity, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit

• The Church-one, holy, catholic, and apostolic-and authority as service

• The sacraments (Baptism, Confirmation/Chrismation, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, Matrimony)

• Prayer as communion with God and the spiritual life as a ＂rule of life＂

• The moral life: dignity, Beatitudes, commandments, virtue, and life in the Spirit

• Suffering, healing, and Christian hope; the communion of saints and the last things

• Mission: the Church for the life of the world

Whether used for personal reading, parish formation, or catechesis with a priest or mentor, Ancient Faith, Present Grace is an invitation to a catholic life that is reverent, hopeful, and deeply human-a life nourished by the sacraments and formed by the love of the Triune God.