Yes, the church is indeed Catholic—in fact, it identifies as part of the Old Catholic tradition, which means it upholds Catholic beliefs and valid sacramental rites, even while maintaining its own independence from the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles

Yes, the priests do receive preparation. They were trained in a Catholic seminary, where they studied theology, liturgy, and pastoral care. Some of them later decided to leave the Archdiocese and joined this church, bringing their formation and experience with them.

Sacraments at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Guadalupe At the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the sacraments of Baptism, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation are celebrated according to the teachings and discipline of the Catholic Church and are fully valid throughout the universal Catholic Church. Baptism In Baptism, we profess, as stated in the Creed, “I confess one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins.” Through this sacrament, a person is incorporated into Christ and His Church, receiving new life in grace. First Holy Communion Children preparing for First Holy Communion participate in a special formation program designed to help them understand the Eucharist, grow in faith, and recognize the real presence of Jesus Christ before receiving Him for the first time. Confirmation The Sacrament of Confirmation is validly conferred through the laying on of hands and anointing, administered under the authority of our bishop, Most Reverend John A. Rinaldi, ensuring full communion with the Catholic Church.