Recently a devotional directory listing and advertisement began running in the Advance Monticellonian about a new “old catholic church” meeting in Monticello. Holy Trinity Old Catholic Church meets on Sundays in a storefront building under the leadership of Father Michael Nesmith, who is listed as the bishop for the Diocese of the Holy Spirit.
Because this group advertises itself as being “catholic” and that their liturgies and seven sacraments follow the “Catholic liturgical traditions,” the authenticity of this church has been questioned.
The official response of the diocese is as follows:
This church is not in any way connected with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Little Rock.
While it uses similar terms, like “sacraments,” “diocese” and “Holy Eucharist,” Holy Trinity Church is not under the authority of the Roman Catholic Church and maintains its own hierarchy and clergy apart from the Roman Catholic Church.
Catholics of the Roman Catholic Church are advised that it is not appropriate to participate in the liturgical rites of such churches.
— Msgr. J. Gaston Hebert, Administrator for the Diocese of Little Rock
