Malta’s Breakaway Catholic Sect Defies Vatican Again

In the heart of Rabat, Malta, a stone’s throw from the ancient Roman villas, a breakaway Catholic sect, the Communion Sancti Johannis Baptistae, has once again made waves in the religious world. This time, they’ve ordained three new bishops, defying the Vatican’s orders to halt such ceremonies.

An Unyielding Schism

The schism began in 2010 when the group’s founder, Bishop John Doe, was excommunicated by the Vatican for ordaining priests without permission. Despite the consequences, the sect, based in a modest house on Triq San Pawl in Rabat, has continued to grow, attracting followers who appreciate its focus on community and personal spiritual growth.

Bishops Ordained in Secret

Last weekend, under the cloak of secrecy, the sect ordained three new bishops in a ceremony held in a private residence in Birkirkara. The Vatican, quick to respond, issued a statement condemning the ordinations, reaffirming that the sect’s actions are “null and void”. However, the sect’s spokesperson, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Hot Malta, “We remain steadfast in our belief that our path is the right one, guided by our interpretation of scripture and our commitment to our community.”

The Vatican’s Response

The Vatican, under Pope Francis, has been vocal in its disapproval of the sect’s actions. A senior Vatican official, speaking off the record, said, “We understand their desire for a more personal, community-based faith, but they must operate within the bounds of canonical law. These ordinations are a step backwards, not forwards.”

The sect’s defiance is not without its challenges. While they have a strong core following, they struggle with the practicalities of their stance. They have no canonical recognition, meaning their marriages are not legally recognized, and their sacraments are not valid in the eyes of the Catholic Church. Yet, they press on, undeterred.