A historical and descriptive introduction. Local practice varies; the examples below are not a judgment of a community’s faithfulness.
When and how it began
Utrecht’s separation from Rome preceded the 19th century. Additional churches emerged after rejecting the First Vatican Council’s definitions of papal authority in 1870. The Union of Utrecht dates to 1889.
Beliefs and practices
Old Catholics preserve episcopal ministry and sacramental worship while rejecting Roman papal jurisdiction. Synods and bishops share important governing responsibilities.
A typical worship service
A Eucharistic liturgy, Scripture readings, preaching, and the church calendar usually structure worship.
What the worship space looks like
Altars, vestments, crosses, and traditional church furnishings can resemble Catholic or Anglican settings.
Branches and differences
Not every church using “Old Catholic” belongs to the Union of Utrecht. Policies and affiliations differ. Old Catholic does not simply mean a Roman Catholic parish using an older form of Mass.
Sources & further reading
Historical overviews support the account of origins. Official church documents describe the community’s own beliefs and practice.
Reviewed September 24, 2026. Broad family descriptions do not settle local policies or every contested point of history.