04/01/2026
New Year Message from Bishop Raul Beni Barcela 2026
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As we welcome 2026, I extend my warmest blessings to all within the Old Roman Catholic Church, Metropolitan See for Asia, under the Utrecht Succession. This New Year is a sacred opportunity to renew our apostolic mission, rooted in the unbroken line of bishops that preserves the Church's ancient traditions of sacramental life and spiritual unity.
In the Utrecht Succession, we cherish the legacy of our forebears, who upheld the faith through centuries of change, ensuring the continuity of ordination and grace. As we look to 2026, let us carry forward this heritage with renewed vigor—deepening our fellowship, serving our communities with compassion, and preparing for the establishment of the Unified Old Roman Catholic Church Philippines. May this year strengthen our bonds, as we grow in faith, hope, and love, guided by the Holy Spirit's enduring presence.
A Prayer for the New Year:
Heavenly Father, source of all grace,
As we enter 2026, we humbly offer our hearts to You.
Bless the Old Roman Catholic Church, Metropolitan See for Asia,
And guide the formation of the Unified Old Roman Catholic Church Philippines,
That it may stand as a beacon of unity, faith, and service.
May Your Holy Spirit fill us with wisdom, courage, and love,
That we may honor the Utrecht Succession's legacy
And build a community rooted in Christ's teachings.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
A Biblical Reflection:
"Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up" (Galatians 6:9). As we embark on this new year, let this verse inspire our perseverance in the apostolic work of the Church.
A Note on Married Clergy in the Utrecht Succession:
In the Old Roman Catholic tradition, particularly within the Utrecht Succession, married clergy have long been a cherished part of our apostolic ministry, reflecting the early Church's practice of allowing bishops and priests to marry while maintaining the integrity of the sacramental life. As we prepare for the Unified Old Roman Catholic Church Philippines, we affirm this heritage, empowering married priests like myself to serve with both spiritual depth and family commitment, fostering a Church that is both ancient and adaptable to the needs of our Filipino faithful.
With prayers for your joy, health, and the flourishing of our Church,
In Opus Ministerii,
(Signed)
Bishop Raul Beni Barcela, PhD, DD, MSSPP
Regionary Bishop of San Jose
National Capital Region, Philippines
Old Roman Catholic Church
Metropolitan See for Asia
Utrecht Succession
January 1, 2026
