Church Militant: Is It Approved by the Catholic Church?
The website Church Militant, formerly known as "Real Catholic TV" and "St. Michael's Media," has become a prominent voice for conservative Catholics. However, its relationship with the official Catholic Church is complex and often contentious.
The Relationship between Church Militant and the Catholic Church
Michael Voris' Church Militant is officially and formally prohibited from referring to itself as "Catholic" due to its ideological stance and opinions that are contrary to the teachings and guidance of the Church, the Pope, and the Magisterium. As a result, it is entirely outside the Catholic Church's official structure and frequently at odds with it.
Church Militant is primarily a conservative platform, often critical of various aspects of the Catholic Church. It views Catholicism through a conservative lens, which distinguishes it from the diverse spectrum of opinions within the Church itself.
The Concept of Church Militant
The term Church Militant refers to the Church on earth, which is still striving to combat sin and temptation. This enduring struggle is reflected in the Church's engagement in a spiritual warfare—campaign of resistance—against the world, the flesh, and the devil, as expressed in its Latin term “militia”.
However, it is important to distinguish between the concept of Church Militant and the organization Church Militant. The website does not enjoy official support from the Vatican or any other official church entities. It primarily operates under the support of lay members who share its conservative perspective.
Official Stance of the Catholic Church
The official stance of the Catholic Church on Church Militant is clear. While it acknowledges the importance of conservative voices within the Church, it officially disassociates from the organization due to its ideological and opinionated nature. The Church believes in fostering a healthy discourse where both liberals and conservatives can coexist and contribute different perspectives.
Church Militant serves as a valuable resource for those who subscribe to its conservative viewpoint. However, it is important for its followers to understand that the organization does not represent the official stance of the Catholic Church. The Church encourages a respectful dialogue and a unified front against spiritual adversaries, working together to uphold Christian values and teachings.
Conclusion
In summary, Church Militant is not approved by the Catholic Church in an official capacity. It operates independently and is not sanctioned by the Vatican or any other Church authority. It is important for conservative Catholics to understand that their beliefs and contributions are valuable, but they should acknowledge the official teachings and guidance of the Church as the definitive source of Catholic doctrine.