Philippine, Independent and International: The Relationship Between—the Iglesia Filipina Independiente and the Old Catholic Churches

A little-known chapter of Philippine religious history is that of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente, in particular as far as its international ecumenical network is concerned. The present contribution focuses on the development of the relationship of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente with the (European) Old Catholic Churches since its proclamation in 1902. It is shown how a variety of motifs play a role in this relationship, which also gives insight into the manner in which the Iglesia Filipina Independiente viewed itself and was perceived by other churches. Also, it is shown how the Iglesia Filipina Independiente both understood itself and was accepted as a fully catholic church with a valid ministry and sacraments by the Old Catholic Churches that cooperated closely with Anglican Churches in this respect. The chapter draws on archival sources, in particular the correspondence of church leaders, including Gregorio Aglipay, Eduard Herzog, Andreas Rinkel, and Michael Ramsey.