Catholics warned about fake bishop, priests

Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma cautioned the public about  two groups that claim to be part of the Roman Catholic Church.

In a circular dated Aug. 13, 2015, the prelate said the religious sects that call themselves Apostolic Church and Migopoy are not  connected with the Catholic Church.

Palma received reports that the two groups, which also has a bishop and priests, are administering  Catholic sacraments and other rituals for a fee.

He said the Apostolic Church has no authority to act in the name of the Roman Catholic Church and to perform the rites and rituals of Catholics.

“Their bishop is not a bishop according to the Roman Catholic Church, and in the same way, their priests are not priests,” Palma said.

Migopoy is also not endorsed by the Catholic Church.

“Let us all strive for unity but care has to be taken with respect for each other’s identity. The Archdiocese does not in any way condone any sect who claims to be Roman Catholic in the name of unity, but undermines the integrity of doctrine and discipline of the Church,” he added.

Early this month, the Archdiocese of Cebu was also alerted by parishioners about the presence of fake priests in northern Cebu.

READ: Beware of fake priests | Man poses as priest, tries to hold Mass

Msgr. Joseph Tan, media liaison officer of the Cebu Archdiocese, advised people to coordinate with and notify their parish priests whenever masses are celebrated outside  churches.

“This is not new. We have had cases like this in the past. Our concern is how it will affect the integrity of the sacraments. Parish priests have to be informed of the celebration of the mass in his area when it is not celebrated by him or his assistant priests,” he added.