What is difference between the Roman Catholics and Polish National Catholic

[billkarr]

One Sunday I went to a PNCC mass and found out that is was just like a RC mass. Same vestments, readings, they even believe in the real presence of Jesus in the eucharist. They have general or private confession. I also read that Pope JohnPaul said they have true Apostolic secession valid sacarments and they are a true Catholic Church. No one worry I did attend a Roman mass the saturday night before. If there is any PNCC menbers or anyone who knows the difference between the two?

 

[beckyann2597]

pncc.org/

Just from reading their website it doesn’t seem like they are in union with Rome.–Rebecca

 

[beckyann2597]

Definetly not in union with Rome. read under beliefs and principles, their beliefs on Apostolic Succession.

 

[Sir_Knight]

There are Polish churches which are Roman Catholic. You’ll find them all over Poland and even here in the US. JPII belonged to many of them during his priesthood and prior to becoming our Holy Father. Those churches are in union with the Holy See.

Then there is the Polish National Catholic Church whose union with the Holy See is questionable at best. They have a “Prime” Bishop appointing other bishops. Catholic churches which are in union with the Holy See have bishops appointed by the Pope.

I am of Polish decent and I like to attend a good old Polish mass but I make it a point to stay away from PNCC. I’d rather hear a mass in a foreign language that I do not understand but know that they are in union with the Holy See than hear a mass in a PNCC church knowing that they are not in union with the Holy See.