A Ministry of Welcome: Independent Catholicism and My Work in Savannah

A Ministry of Welcome: Independent Catholicism and My Work in Savannah

When people hear the word “Catholic,” they often think of the Roman Catholic Church. But Catholicism is wider than many realize. There is a quiet, faithful branch known as the Independent Catholic movement, which includes churches like the Old Catholic and Liberal Catholic traditions. These are not breakaway groups or reactionary offshoots – they are living communities rooted in apostolic tradition, committed to sacraments, service, and spiritual care.

I serve as an Independent Catholic priest in the Holy Celtic Church International – a branch of this wider tradition. My ministry, based in Savannah and the greater area, including Hinesville, Fort Stewart, and Hunter Army Airfield, is grounded in compassion, healing, and inclusion. It’s called Traveling Light Ministries, and our mission is to make sure no one sits alone at the edge of the table.

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What Is Independent Catholicism?

Independent Catholic churches share valid lines of apostolic succession, meaning our bishops and priests can trace their ordinations back to the apostles – just as Roman Catholic clergy can. However, we are not governed by Rome. That means we hold to the core teachings of the early Church while allowing more flexibility around issues like gender, sexuality, and marital status. We affirm the dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals, support women in ministry, and welcome those who have felt rejected by traditional structures.

We celebrate the same sacraments – Eucharist, Baptism, Confirmation, Reconciliation – but we offer them freely and pastorally, especially to those who’ve been told elsewhere that they don’t belong.

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The Old Catholic and Liberal Catholic Roots

The Old Catholic Church emerged in the 1800s when several national churches in Europe rejected certain theological developments from the First Vatican Council. They maintained the apostolic faith while choosing a path of autonomy. The Liberal Catholic Church, which developed in the early 20th century, emphasized the mystical and inner life of Christianity – encouraging personal responsibility, spiritual development, and freedom of conscience.

Both of these traditions deeply inform what we do in the Independent movement today. We draw from ancient liturgy, contemplative prayer, sacramental theology, and a deep respect for spiritual liberty. Our communities are often small – but they are deeply pastoral and rooted in care.

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A Catholic Ministry for the Margins

As a priest in this tradition, I work with people who are grieving, healing, searching, or trying to rebuild their relationship with God. Many of those I serve are veterans, caregivers, LGBTQ+ individuals, or those who’ve been wounded by religion. Some come looking for the sacraments. Others just want to know that God hasn’t given up on them.

I offer Mass, spiritual direction, grief support, and Reiki healing, both in person and online. My training is grounded in apostolic succession, Catholic tradition, and trauma-informed care. My calling is to walk beside people where they are – not where they’ve been told they’re supposed to be.

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What Makes Traveling Light Ministries Different

• We’re not here to convert. We’re here to walk with you.

• We serve people who’ve been excluded – especially LGBTQ+ people, veterans, and the spiritually displaced.

• We offer the sacraments as real encounters with grace – not as rewards for being perfect.

• We combine Catholic tradition with healing practices like grief support, spiritual direction, and Reiki.

This is what it means to be Catholic in the Independent tradition: rooted in ancient faith, responsive to the needs of today, and focused on the dignity of every soul.

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You Have a Place at the Table

If you’ve ever felt unwelcome in your faith tradition, or if you’ve longed for the sacraments but didn’t know where to turn, I want you to know that there is room for you here. You don’t have to leave your identity or your wounds at the door. You don’t have to pretend to be someone else.

You are not too far gone. You are not too different. You are not alone.

Whether you’re looking for the sacraments, a place to heal, or simply someone who will listen, Traveling Light Ministries is here for you.

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To learn more or schedule a session, visit www.travelinglightmin.org

Serving Savannah and the greater area, including Hinesville, Fort Stewart, Hunter Army Airfield, and beyond – both in person and online