Ancient History and Validations

Utrecht receives Rights of Autonomy from Blessed Pope Eugene III in 1145.

This Right is confirmed by Pope Leo in 1215 and becomes known universally as the Leonine Privilege.

Privilege subsequently reconfirmed in two Church Councils in 1520 and 1717.

More Recent Validations

Dominus Iesus issued by the Roman Catholic Magisterium in the year 2000, signed by John Paul II on June 16, and Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger on August 6, states:
"The churches which, while not existing in perfect communion with the (Roman) Catholic Church, remain united to her by means of the closest bonds, that is, by Apostolic Succession and a valid Eucharist, are true particular churches."

A Concordat was signed between the Holy Father, Pope Paul VI, and Archbishop Glazmaker of Utrecht in 1976, recognizing the Catholic status of one another and the validity of one another's Sacraments.

"The Roman Church recognizes the validity of Old Catholic Orders and Sacraments." 1974, Catholic Almanac, Our Sunday Visitor

"The Old Catholics, like the Orthodox, possess a valid priesthood." Separated Brethren, William J. Whalen

"...Catholics may receive the Eucharist, penance or anointing from sacred ministers of non-Catholic denominations whose Orders are considered valid by the Catholic Church. This includes all Eastern Orthodox priests, priests of the Old Catholic and the Polish National Church." A Catholic Guide to the New Code of Canon Law, Thomas P. Doyle, OP

"...Ordinations performed by the bishops of the Old Catholic Church are considered valid." A Practical Commentary on the Code of Canon Law, Rev. Stanislaw Woywood, OFM, LLB

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