IOCS stands for the Institute of Old CAtholic Studies.

The IOCS is not a building!

We use the word “classes,” but there are no tests or homework.

This is where the IOCS happens…in the peace of your own home!

So what is the IOCS?

Our ministry is two-fold:

  • First and foremost, we seek to build relationships across state boundaries with the communities of our greater church family.

  • Secondly, we complete the first goal through shared opportunities to learn about Scripture, our Old CAtholic Faith, Book Discussion, and prayer.

    • We seek to deepen and enrich our faith in God.

    • To increase our understanding of being an Old Catholic.

    • To increase our spiritual life.

What people are saying about us!!

Judy states:

 Attending an IOCS class has made me more appreciative of my faith, and learning more about various topics, such as the saints, women in the Bible, the 10 Commandments, and it also has given me an opportunity to meet a variety of people within the IOCS that I would not have had an opportunity to get to know. I am excited for the topics that will be shared this semester. And it is my hope and prayer that many more will join as we learn more, discuss more, and become more community minded

While I haven't attended many IOCS classes, I plan on attending more classes this next session.  The ones I did join, were very informative on areas of our religion that I had not considered before, like the women in the bible. The classes are informal enough that one feels comfortable in chiming in with opinions or questions.  The goal is to learn with your community, which is so much larger than our own faith community.  I encourage all Old Catholic Communion members to take advantage of this gift of learning about our faith!

The Institute for Old Catholic Studies (IOCS) is truly a blessing for our church and our individual spiritual journeys. More than just an educational program, the IOCS offers a vibrant, welcoming space where we can connect deeply with others across the communion and build lasting, lifelong friendships. Through thoughtful and engaging courses, it helps us expand our understanding of faith and explore topics that truly matter to our lives and ministries. It also serves as a wonderful platform to appreciate the unique and beautiful gift that the Old Catholic tradition brings to the broader Christian family.

At the heart of the IOCS experience is genuine Christian fellowship. As we learn, we study together to deepen our minds, pray together to anchor our hearts, and share the authentic joys and struggles of life by laughing and crying together. Through every gathering, we grow side-by-side in faith, in love, and in community. Whether you are seeking to enrich your personal spiritual life, prepare for ministry, or simply find a place to belong, I whole-heartedly recommend the Institute for Old Catholic Studies.

+Dewayne