Week of SepTEMBER 7th 2025

My brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ,
As we approach September 11, many in the United States—and around the world—carry heavy memories. We mourn the lives lost and recognize the countless others forever changed that day. We also remember the first responders who have suffered from what they witnessed and from the lasting health effects of their rescue work. In the years that followed, the global War on Terror left complex and often troubling outcomes. Looking back, we can see structures of sin at work; yet we also recall a moment when people reached across political lines to help one another. May we continue to seek unity and freedom, grounded in human dignity and responsibility.
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This past week I completed recording a Lenten series for next year. My hope is to invite people into the richness of the season—calling us to repentance, deepening our understanding of Lent, and walking through the rites of Holy Week—so that we may grow closer to God.

Two new videos also went live this week: one on polarization in the Church and in our political life, and another continuing the theme “Sacramentalized but Not Evangelized.” I’ll place the links below.

Finally, I previewed an upcoming Gospel Simplicity video by Austin on the First Vatican Council. It offers a balanced overview and raises important questions about papal claims—questions Catholics should wrestle with. When it’s released, I plan to share a follow-up with my reflections. Even if “Old Catholics” aren’t mentioned by name, I believe it will illuminate concerns our movement has raised and help people understand why our witness matters.

Please also keep our bishop in prayer as he continues work on liturgical texts for our community. I’m eager for their release so we can begin our sacramental ministry and move forward with a non-traditional, extended parish model.
Peace,
Rev. Ben