The Holy Synod of the Reformed Catholic Church
Announces the Erection of the
Diocese of Our Lady, Queen of Martyrs
Orlando, FL — The Reformed Catholic Church is pleased to announce the formal establishment of the Diocese of Our Lady, Queen of Martyrs, a new ecclesial jurisdiction serving the Southeastern United States, on 4 October 2025. This historic milestone marks a profound moment of remembrance, renewal, and mission for communities across the region.
Named in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Our Lady, Queen of Martyrs, this evocation of her enduring presence as a maternal figure of strength and compassion is fitting. She stands in solidarity with all who suffer for the sake of justice, truth, and love. Rooted in the legacy of Southern witness, the diocese commemorates the lives of those lost to injustice, enslaved persons, Indigenous peoples, civil rights leaders, LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, the homeless, and others whose sacrifices reflect the Gospel’s call to love and liberation.
“This new diocese is not simply a geographic restructuring,” said Bishop William R. Cavins, who will serve as its founding bishop. “It is a spiritual home for those who seek a Church that remembers its martyrs and walks with the marginalized. It is a Church where Black lives matter, where queer lives are sacred, where Indigenous memory is honored, and where immigrants are welcomed as Christ among us.”
The Diocese of Our Lady, Queen of Martyrs encompasses the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and the Territory of Puerto Rico. It will prioritize inclusive liturgy, prophetic preaching, sacramental justice, and the formation of diverse leaders who embody the Church’s mission of healing and transformation.
Drawing from liberation theology, inclusive spirituality, Indigenous traditions, and ecumenical dialogue, the diocese will serve as a center for theological reflection and pastoral care. Its establishment affirms the Reformed Catholic Church’s commitment to unity in diversity and to building a Church that embodies Christ’s love in this place and time.
First they came for the Communists
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Communist
Then they came for the Socialists
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Socialist
Then they came for the trade unionists
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a trade unionist
Then they came for the Jews
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Jew
Then they came for me
And there was no one left
To speak out for me
Pastor Martin Niemöller
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Peace Be With You
Abiding Presence Faith Community, a parish of The Reformed Catholic Church, welcomes you to our inclusive Catholic family. Together, we strive to make God’s love known in Central Florida by leading people to a life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ. No matter what you’ve been through. We are here for you. Whatever questions you have. We will try to answer them. Your spiritual journey is unique, and we celebrate the diversity of our members.
Abiding Presence is where you’ll find the grace, mercy, and forgiveness Jesus gives everyone. We are similar to other catholic churches in our liturgy, sacraments, and apostolic succession. What makes us different is our desire to include everyone regardless of marital status, gender identity, or other human distinctions that lead to exclusion.
We invite you to worship with us this Saturday and participate in “Making God’s Love Known.”
If we can be of service to you or if you have questions, please fill out the contact form below.
