The Archdiocese of Manila warned the faithful against participating in the services of certain churches that are “not in full communion” with the Catholic Church.
“The sacraments that they administer are therefore invalid and illicit,” the archdiocese said in Circular 2023–64 signed by Chancellor Fr. Isidro Marinay, issued on August 16.
The circular specifically referred to the Brazilian Catholic Apostolic Church and other groups such as the Old Roman Catholic Church.
The circular said that the practices and vestments of these churches are identical with those of the Catholic Church, potentially misleading the faithful.
“Because of some misleading information and the practices, vestments, and other activities apparently identical to the Roman Catholic Church, some members of our faithful have participated in their services and their ministers have been invited to chapels and gatherings,” the circular said.
The archdiocese called on the clergy to convey the warning to their parishioners regarding the mentioned groups.
“We request our priests to inform our faithful for proper guidance regarding the matter,” it added.
