The Convergent Catholic Communion
| Convergent Catholic Communion | |
|---|---|
| Abbreviation | CCC |
| Orientation | Autonomous Catholicism Convergent Catholicism |
| Theology | Convergent Catholic |
| Polity | Episcopal |
| Primus | JOHN GREGORY (von Folmar) |
| Liturgy | Anglican Rite Byzantine Rite Roman Rite Western Convergent Rite Eastern Convergent Rite |
| Headquarters | Phoenix, Arizona |
| Founder | Drew Haywood Larsen JOHN GREGORY von Folmar Thomas Weller |
| Origin | June 15 2014 Phoenix, Arizona, USA |
| Official website | www.ConvergentCatholics.com |
The Convergent Catholic Communion (CCC) is a Catholic Christian ecclesial body that integrates the Sacramental (Liturgy-based), evangelical (Gospel-focused),and charismatic (Spirit-filled) traditions[1] of the universal Church. As part of the broader Convergence Movement, the CCC seeks to blend these diverse expressions into a unified practice of faith.
In its worship and community life, the CCC emphasizes the importance of the sacraments, upholds the authority of Scripture, and embraces the active presence of the Holy Spirit. This approach reflects a commitment to the fullness of Christian tradition, aiming to create a holistic and inclusive experience for all believers.
The CCC self identifies as Catholic, rooted in the universal Church founded by Jesus and the apostles. It maintains traditions such as the historic creeds, the episcopacy, and the threefold ministry of deacons, priests, and bishops within apostolic succession. This foundation underscores its dedication to both historical continuity and contemporary relevance.
Through this convergence of traditions, the CCC endeavors to embody a faith that is both ancient and future-oriented, honoring the rich heritage of the Church while engaging dynamically with the modern world.
History
The Convergent Catholic Communion (CCC) was established in June 2014 by the Reverend Drew Haywood-Larsen and the Most Reverend John Gregory (von Folmar). Their vision was to create a sanctuary for affirming clergy and ministries within the Convergence Movement, blending evangelical, sacramental, and charismatic traditions.
Initially named the Anthem Network, the CCC held its first General Assembly in August 2014, where officers were elected, and a constitution was ratified. Following the passing of Rev. Haywood-Larsen in 2016[2], Rev. von Folmar was appointed as the Presiding Minister. Under his leadership, the Communion deepened its commitment to convergence, culminating in the consecration of its first bishops in 2018, thereby embracing the historic episcopate in apostolic succession.
In July 2021, an Eastern Rite Connexion was formed to answer the call for a place for Eastern Rite Catholics within the Convergent Catholic Communion.
In November 2022, the Communion adopted the name Convergent Catholic Communion to reflect its identity better. Today, the CCC continues to grow, guided by principles of inclusivity, sacramental worship, and a dedication to social justice, honoring the rich traditions of the Catholic faith while engaging with contemporary society.
Organizational Polity
The government of the Convergent Catholic Communion (formerly the Convergent Christian Communion) is vested in its Para-Church Ministries and Worship Communities represented lay delegates and duly qualified clergy, gathered in General Assembly. The Pastoral Authority for the Communion is held by the Bishops Council while the Administrative Powers are exercised by the General Council[3].
The Members and Ministries of the Communion are organized based on charism into non geographic entities known as Connexions. These Connexions are based on Rite (Eastern and Western) & Expression (Low, Broad and High Church); and are led by an Ordinary/Eparch.
The Convergent Catholic Communion (CCC) follows a Connexional Polity, which emphasizes relational governance rather than rigid hierarchical structures. This system prioritizes connection over structure, fostering a mutual accountability model among clergy and laity alike.
Unlike traditional episcopal models where authority is centralized, the CCC’s governance is shared across multiple councils:
- The General Assembly (gathering of laity and clergy) serves as the highest legislative body.
- The Bishops Council provides pastoral oversight but remains accountable to the broader Communion.
- The General Council manages administrative affairs between Assemblies.
Each Connexion—a network of affiliated churches, ministries, or religious orders—has the freedom to elect its own leadership, establish formation programs, and create governing documents while remaining in communion with the larger body. This allows for autonomy within unity, ensuring that diverse expressions of the Catholic faith can flourish.
Bishops in the CCC serve as “first among equals”, rather than monarchical figures, aligning with the Communion’s rejection of imperial episcopacy. The CCC embraces inclusive governance, democratic decision-making, and a commitment to both historic tradition and contemporary expressions of faith.
Liturgical and Sacramental Practices
The Convergent Catholic Communion embraces a rich sacramental and liturgical life, drawing from both Eastern and Western Christian traditions. As part of the Convergence Movement, the CCC seeks to integrate historic Catholic and Orthodox worship with a renewed sense of accessibility and pastoral inclusivity.
Sacramental Theology
The CCC affirms the seven sacraments of the Catholic tradition—Baptism, Confirmation (Chrismation), Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Matrimony, and Holy Orders—recognizing them as means of divine grace and central to the life of the Church. The Communion holds that these sacraments are validly conferred through apostolic succession and that they are available to all baptized Christians who seek them in faith.
Liturgical Traditions
The CCC celebrates the Divine Liturgy, the Mass, and other sacramental rites using both Byzantine and Latin-rite liturgical forms, as well as elements from Anglican and other historic Catholic liturgical expressions. Some communities within the CCC use a locally adapted version of the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, reflecting their Byzantine heritage, while others use the Roman, Anglican, or Lutheran liturgical traditions with adaptations that align with the Communion’s theological and pastoral vision.
The Communion emphasizes liturgical beauty, sacramental mysticism, and active congregational participation, seeking to create worship that is both deeply reverent and spiritually engaging. The use of incense, chant, vestments, and iconography reflects the CCC’s commitment to preserving the sacred traditions of the ancient Church while making worship meaningful for today’s faithful.
Eucharistic Theology and Practice
The CCC upholds the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist, affirming the ancient teaching that the bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ through the epiclesis and the words of institution. The Communion practices open Eucharistic hospitality, welcoming all baptized Christians who approach the altar with faith and reverence.
Sacramental Inclusivity
In keeping with its mission of radical hospitality, the CCC ensures that the sacraments are available to all who seek them, regardless of gender, marital status, or orientation. The Communion supports married clergy, the ordination of women, and the recognition of all sacramental marriages, believing that the grace of the sacraments should not be restricted by human limitations.
Through its liturgical and sacramental life, the CCC seeks to be a Church that is both deeply rooted in tradition and responsive to the needs of today’s faithful, ensuring that worship remains a place of encounter with God’s presence and transformative grace.
Ecumenical and Interjurisdictional Relations
The Convergent Catholic Communion is committed to fostering Christian unity through meaningful engagement with other ecclesiastical bodies while maintaining its distinct identity. Rooted in the Convergence Movement, the CCC embraces a vision of reconciliation between the evangelical, sacramental, and charismatic streams of Christianity, promoting dialogue and shared mission across denominational lines.
Guided by principles of collegiality and mutual respect, the CCC actively participates in conversations with other Christian traditions, seeking opportunities for collaboration in worship, ministry, and social outreach. The Communion affirms the validity of sacraments celebrated in apostolic traditions and upholds the importance of shared Christian witness in today’s world.
The CCC also recognizes the value of interjurisdictional cooperation with other independent sacramental and Catholic jurisdictions. Through pastoral dialogue, theological exchange, and occasional shared liturgies, the Communion works toward a greater sense of unity within the broader Independent Catholic movement while respecting the diversity of ecclesial governance and tradition.
In all relationships, the CCC remains committed to Christ-centered unity, understanding that ecumenical engagement is not about uniformity but about honoring the work of the Holy Spirit in the wider Body of Christ.
References
- ↑ LePort, Brian (2020-04-07). "Interview: discussing the Convergence Movement with Fr. Kevin Daugherty". Google-Hermeneutics and Wiki-Exegesis. Retrieved 2020-09-05.
- ↑ "Remembering the life of Andrew Haywood". obituaries.effinghamdailynews.com. Retrieved 2020-08-13.
- ↑ Communion, Convergent Christian. "The Convergent Catholic Communion Constitution and Canon 2022". Convergent Catholic Communion.
External links
- Official website of Convergent Catholic Communion
- Pentecostals & Charismatics for Peace & Justice Article: ALL THINGS COMMON: THE ECONOMIC EQUALITY OF PENTECOST
- Pentecostals & Charismatics for Peace & Justice Article: WAS THE EARLY CHURCH REALLY PACIFIST?
- Google-Hermeneutics and Wiki-Exegesis Interview: Discussing the Convergent Christian Communion
- Sacramental Whine Interview: Overcoming with Kenny von Folmar
- Sacramental Whine Interview: Passionate about Sacraments with guest host Kevin Daugherty
- Sacramental Whine Interview: Saving Evangelism with guest host Kevin Daugherty
- Sacramental Whine Interview: Serious Discipleship with Kevin Daugherty
- Sacramental Whine Interview: We are all loved by God with Rebecca Lee Pierce
- Artisans of the Horizon - Interview: Rev. Can. Michael Angelo D'Arrigo - Convergent Christian Communion
- Convergent Catholic Teachings - Bishop Michael Angelo D'Arrigo
