How are you Catholic?
The term "independent" does not refer to our spiritual state but a jurisdictional one. This term is used to differentiate ourselves and prevent confusion. There has long been a history of autocephalous communities within the Universal Catholic Church that have maintained valid sacraments and are, in fact, true Churches.
Speaking on this issue, then-Cardinal Josef Ratzinger wrote,
"Therefore, there exists a single Church of Christ, which subsists in the Catholic Church, governed by the Successor of Peter and by the Bishops in communion with him. The Churches which, while not existing in perfect communion with the (Roman) Catholic Church, remain united to her by means of the closest bonds, that is, by apostolic succession and a valid Eucharist, are true particular Churches. Therefore, the Church of Christ is present and operative also in these Churches..." (from Dominus Ieusus)
Additionally, we adhere to the first seven ecumenical councils, celebrate all seven sacraments, the Nicene Creed, and the Apostles Creed.
Collaboration with the Roman Church
The Society of Christ the King seeks to collaborate with our Roman Catholic siblings whenever and wherever possible. Our Superior General, the Most Rev. Robert Chung, SCR., recently visited Rome. While there, he met with Vatican officials and celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass at a basilica in the Catacombs of St. Callixtus (see photo below).
At the local level, Christ the King Church seeks to collaborate with, support, and serve with our Roman siblings whenever and wherever possible.