In the Diocese of Covington, a deeply unsettling story is unfolding. The Missionaries of St. John the Baptist (MSJB), a small but vibrant community of priests dedicated to the Traditional Latin Mass and the full sacramental life of the Church, face official suppression. Bishop John Iffert’s decision to dissolve their community is based on a narrative that paints these priests as sowers of division and contempt for the Holy Father and bishops. However, this portrayal is not only false but profoundly unjust.
For years, the Missionaries of St. John the Baptist have been a beacon of unity, fidelity, and love for the Church. Their mission has been to restore all things in Christ, to offer reverent worship according to the ancient Roman rites, and to guide souls with steadfast adherence to Catholic teaching. Now, their work is under attack—not because they failed in their duties, but perhaps because they have succeeded too well in fostering genuine Catholic renewal.
Fidelity Misrepresented as Division
Critics of the missionaries have claimed that their homilies and pastoral work foster division and contempt for Church authority. Yet, parishioners who have heard these homilies consistently report otherwise. The priests have always preached a message of fidelity: fidelity to Christ, to the Church’s timeless teachings, and to the proper role of obedience within the Church.
While they have occasionally addressed the challenges posed by certain trends and orientations within the Church hierarchy, these remarks were rooted in truth and charity. They never sought to undermine the Holy Father or the bishops but instead emphasized the importance of remaining faithful to the Church, even amidst confusion. Their homilies often reminded the faithful of their duty to remain in the Church and avoid the errors of schism or independent “Catholic” movements, which only lead souls further from Christ.
This nuanced, courageous stance has been a lifeline for many faithful Catholics navigating the challenges of the modern Church. Far from fostering disunity, these priests have helped countless souls remain anchored in the barque of Peter.
A Legacy of Spiritual Renewal and Growth
The Missionaries of St. John the Baptist have achieved what few diocesan initiatives could boast: they have drawn people from across the country to build a thriving parish community centered on the Traditional Latin Mass. Families have uprooted their lives to be near Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Park Hills, Kentucky, a spiritual home that embodies reverence, orthodoxy, and Catholic charity.
Under the missionaries’ leadership, the parish has not only grown in numbers but also in spiritual vitality. From confessions to catechesis, from beautiful liturgies to acts of charity, the priests have tirelessly ministered to their flock. Parishioners attest to the transformative impact these priests have had on their lives, helping them deepen their faith and love for the Church.
Despite this remarkable success, the diocese has consistently restricted the missionaries’ ability to expand. The parish, which could have easily branched out into additional locations, was told to remain small. This decision now appears to have been a calculated move to limit their influence.
Signs of Grace Ignored
Adding to the tragedy of this suppression is the diocese’s apparent disregard for the many blessings associated with the missionaries’ work. In the very month that the diocese began its campaign against the missionaries nearly a year ago, a mysterious spring appeared on the parish grounds—a phenomenon that many saw as a sign of divine favor. More recently, the parish made national news with state approval from the Attorney General for the construction of a beautiful Marian grotto, a testament to the missionaries’ devotion to the Blessed Mother and their ability to inspire the faithful.
Yet, these signs of grace have been conspicuously absent from diocesan communications. Instead of celebrating the good fruit of the missionaries’ work, the diocese has chosen to weave a narrative of disobedience and division, ignoring the overwhelming evidence of their fidelity and the spiritual renewal they have brought to countless souls.
A Suppression That Harms the Church
The suppression of the Missionaries of St. John the Baptist is not just a loss for one parish but a blow to the entire diocese. The priests have shown themselves to be exemplary pastors, dedicated to the salvation of souls and the preservation of Catholic tradition. In an era when many dioceses struggle with declining Mass attendance and waning vocations, these priests have built a thriving community that could have been a model for Catholic renewal.
Instead of recognizing their value, the diocese has chosen to silence them. This decision not only alienates the faithful who have benefited from their ministry but also risks further division within the Church. It is a tragic irony that priests accused of fostering disunity are being suppressed in a manner that sows division and discouragement among the faithful.
A Call to Prayer and Action
As the Missionaries of St. John the Baptist face suppression, the faithful are called to respond with prayer, perseverance, and a renewed commitment to the truth. We must pray for Bishop Iffert, that he may recognize the immense gift these priests are to the Church and reverse his decision. We must also stand in solidarity with the missionaries and the parishioners of Our Lady of Lourdes, supporting them in their time of trial.
History teaches us that those who faithfully serve Christ and His Church are often misunderstood and persecuted. The saints themselves endured suppression and misunderstanding as they united themselves to the crucified Lord and His sorrowful Mother. Let us take courage from their example, knowing that fidelity to Christ will ultimately prevail.
The Missionaries of St. John the Baptist have worked tirelessly to foster unity, fidelity, and love for the Church. They are not a threat to the Church’s unity but a powerful witness to its timeless truths. May their example inspire us to remain steadfast in faith and charity, even in the face of injustice.
Contact Bishop Iffert
In light of the challenges facing the Missionaries of St. John the Baptist, concerned individuals are encouraged to express their support and share their perspectives with Bishop John C. Iffert. Respectful and heartfelt communication can play a crucial role in fostering understanding and dialogue.
Mailing Address:
Most Reverend John C. Iffert
Bishop of Covington
1125 Madison Avenue
Covington, KY 41011-3115
Contact Number: (859) 392-1500
When contacting Bishop Iffert, it is important to maintain a tone of respect and charity, focusing on personal experiences and the positive impact of the missionaries’ ministry. This approach not only reflects Christian values but also contributes to constructive dialogue within the Church community.
For additional information or to explore other ways to support the Missionaries of St. John the Baptist, please visit their official website at www.msjb.info
