BURNSVILLE — Some confusion has arisen regarding a group of men in western North Carolina who, despite their claims, are not an officially recognized Catholic religious community and are not affiliated with the Diocese of Charlotte. Bishop Michael T. Martin, OFM Conv., issued the following statement Jan. 13 regarding the group:
“Recently, a small group of men referring to themselves as the ‘Marian Friars Minor’ have taken up residence in the Diocese of Charlotte, in particular in the Burnsville area. This group, having difficulties with officials of the Diocese of Covington, Kentucky, have moved to our diocese and are functioning without tl1e permission of the Diocese of Charlotte. Their website declares them to be a religious community that is seeking vocations as well as donations, in particular to open a retreat center in the area.
“Please be advised that this group is not an officially recognized religious community neither in the Latin nor Eastern code and in no way represents the Roman Catholic Church (regardless of what they may claim). Its members are not to be offered the ability to speak publicly or serve in any of the ministry sites of the Diocese of Charlotte.”
— Catholic News Herald