At the heart of insightful discussions surrounding the future of the Catholic Church, Margaret Mary O’Connor engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Bishop Philip Belzunce.

 

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This dialogue goes beyond the surface, delving into Bishop Philip’s personal journey, his commitment to reform, and the pressing need for change within the Church.

Bishop Philip’s Personal Journey

Bishop Philip opens up about the unique path that led him to the priesthood, sharing experiences as a Redemptorist in the Philippines and his subsequent journey to the United States. His activism during the martial law period and dedication to social justice highlight his unwavering commitment to both spirituality and worldly concerns.

The Good Shepherd Companions

Central to Bishop Philip’s vision for reform is his involvement with the Good Shepherd Companions. This group, rooted in inclusivity and embracing the Good News of Jesus Christ, passionately advocates for the ordination of women as priests and bishops. Bishop Philip sheds light on the urgent need for a more balanced representation within the clergy.

Love, Family, and Inclusivity

Beyond the ecclesiastical, Bishop Philip shares insights into the importance of love within the context of marriage and family life. Drawing from personal experiences, he emphasizes the challenges and rewards of understanding relationships, bringing a unique perspective to the conversation about inclusivity within the Church.

Championing Change

Bishop Philip boldly advocates for a more progressive approach to certain Church doctrines. His views align with the evolving nature of the Church, challenging traditional perspectives on celibacy and encouraging a more inclusive representation within the clergy. His commitment to positive change resonates with the Church’s need for constant reform, echoing the teachings of Saint Augustine.

Reverend Shanon’s Influence

Bishop Philip and Margaret Mary O’Connor also delve into Reverend Shanon’s role for women in the priesthood, despite her absence in the direct dialogue. While Reverend Shanon’s voice may not have been present in the conversation, the significance of her perspective is acknowledged, highlighting the challenges and opportunities associated with fostering inclusivity and addressing contemporary challenges within the Church.

Reverend Shanon’s influence is subtly woven into the conversation, enriching the dialogue by bringing an additional layer of insight. Her anticipated contributions to the evolving landscape of the Catholic Church add depth to the exploration of diverse viewpoints. In this holistic approach, the conversation becomes a tapestry, intertwining Bishop Philip’s rich experiences and visionary perspectives with the valuable insights that Reverend Shanon may bring, creating a more comprehensive understanding of the path toward a more inclusive and forward-thinking Church.

A Vision for the Future

In exploring Bishop Philip’s vision for the future of the Catholic Church, Margaret Mary O’Connor delves into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Bishop Philip’s unwavering commitment to doing God’s work, despite potential resistance, offers a hopeful perspective on the transformative possibilities within the Church.

Looking Forward

The conversation between Margaret Mary O’Connor and Bishop Philip serves as a compelling exploration of the future of the Catholic Church. Bishop Philip’s vision for reform, rooted in love, inclusivity, and a commitment to positive change, inspires hope for a more progressive and balanced religious community. As discussions surrounding these transformative topics continue, Bishop Philip’s insights provide valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of the Catholic Church.

About Bishop Philip Belzune

Bishop Philip Belzunce, a devoted and transformative leader in the Catholic Church, has forged a path of service and leadership marked by profound spiritual and academic contributions.

Ordained as a Redemptorist priest on May 2, 1972, following his seminary training in the Philippines and earning a Masters in Spirituality in 1970, his journey took a significant turn after studying in Rome. Assigned as the National Director of the Better World Movement in the Philippines, he played a crucial role in integrating humaneness and spirituality following the Vatican II Council.

In 2015, Bishop Belzunce underwent a unique transition, being incardinated as a Married Catholic Priest into the Ecumenical Catholic Prelature of S/S. Peter and Paul, Married Priests Now! He was consecrated as a married Catholic Bishop in 2017, aligning with Pope Francis’ vision for healing relationships in humanity.

Elected as the president of the Good Shepherd Companions, an Ecumenical Catholic Ordinariate community, in June 2017, Bishop Belzunce actively inspired initiatives to implement the vision and goals of the Vatican Council II. He later became the Bishop Ordinary of the Good Shepherd Companions and a board member of The Married Priest Now!, engaging in global efforts for married priests.

Bishop Belzunce, along with his wife, embraces a worldview that recognizes the interconnectedness of all aspects of life. They advocate for expanding perspectives and challenging unquestioned realities, particularly within the Roman Catholic Church’s stance on celibate canonical priests.

Believing in the power of Married Priests Now! to influence positive change, Bishop Belzunce envisions a world where inclusivity triumphs over discrimination, fostering love, creativity, and wisdom.

For over 30 years, Bishop Belzunce and his wife have been instrumental in facilitating conscious transformative leadership, emphasizing cultural competency, holistic perspectives, and compassionate relational skills. They find fulfillment in serving a Higher Purpose, guiding individuals and communities through transformative journeys.

At the core of Bishop Belzunce’s episcopacy is a spirit of open-mindedness and inclusivity. He acknowledges the divine presence and life force as catalysts for healing divisions and expresses gratitude for being an instrument of love and light in the world, alongside his life partner. Their shared purpose is a testament to their commitment to Christ-Spirit’s guidance in their earthly journey.

Bishop Philip Belzunce’s extensive and diverse accomplishments showcase his remarkable contributions across various fields, including serving as the President and Bishop Ordinary of the Good Shepherd Companions, holding a Doctor of Divinity title, and being the National Director of the Better World Movement in the Philippines.

Additionally, he has made significant strides in psychology, alternative medicine, psychotherapy, and authored eight books, one of which received recognition from KIRKUS. As a certified practitioner in various holistic approaches, a Reiki Master, and an organizational consultant, Bishop Belzunce has left an indelible mark on the fields of spirituality, psychology, and transformative education.

Learn more at https://bishopphilipbelzunce.com/

About Margaret Mary O’Connor

Meet Margaret Mary O’Connor, a passionate author and podcast host, is driven by a profound mission—to reveal the hidden truths and injustices within the Catholic Church. Often referred to as “The Modern Day David,” she fearlessly confronts the issues that many shy away from.

Margaret’s mission is rooted in love for her Church, a love that compels her to seek justice and fairness. Her journey took a significant turn when she was diagnosed with Celiac disease, an autoimmune condition that barred her from consuming wheat, rye, or barley. This diagnosis not only threatened her health but also challenged her faith, as the Church’s law mandated the presence of wheat in the Communion host, preventing her from partaking in a fundamental aspect of her religious practice.

Undeterred by this obstacle, Margaret embarked on a mission to challenge the Church’s norms. With a sharp intellect and extensive research, she delved deep into the intricacies of the Church, uncovering carefully guarded secrets. Through her compelling writings and insightful podcasts, she exposes these truths, sparking vital conversations about the Church’s practices and policies.

Margaret’s dedication to her cause goes beyond personal struggle; it is a fight for inclusivity, understanding, and compassion within her beloved Church. She advocates for change, pushing boundaries and encouraging dialogue. Her work resonates not only with those directly affected by the Church’s rigid doctrines but also with anyone who values transparency and fairness.

In a world where speaking out against established institutions requires immense courage, Margaret Mary O’Connor stands tall, using her voice to challenge the status quo. As the author of Journey of a Celiac’s Soul: A Second Chance at Life and Scandal in the Shadows: The Original Priest-Mary Mother and podcast host, she not only sheds light on the injustices within the Catholic Church but also inspires others to question, learn, and strive for a more just and inclusive society.