Welcome—truly. Whether you are visiting for the first time, seeking a spiritual home, returning to the Church after time away, or simply exploring who we are, please know this: you are wanted, you are valued, and you are loved here.
 
At Our Lady of Mount Carmel American National Catholic Church, located in Melrose, MA, we follow Jesus’ example of welcoming all. Jesus never turned anyone away, and neither do we. Many who find their way to the American National Catholic Church come carrying stories of hurt, exclusion, or rejection by other more legacy Catholic communities. If that is part of your journey, please hear this with all your heart: there is a place for you here!
 
We are an inclusive parish where:
• Those who are divorced or divorced and remarried are welcome—without hesitation.
• Our LGBTQ+ friends are fully affirmed in their dignity as ‘the beloved.’
• Women are ordained to serve at the altar.
• Same-sex couples are joyfully married and supported.
• All who believe in the true presence of Christ in the Eucharist are invited to receive Him in Communion. Jesus never turns away anyone who sincerely seeks Him.
 
Here, the table is open, the embrace is wide, and the grace of God flows freely.
 
We also believe deeply in the gifts of the laity. Our members play vital, meaningful roles in parish life, and we encourage lay leadership as part of the shared mission we carry in Christ. Across the United States, the ANCC is home to parish communities and ministries dedicated to those who are alienated, lonely, underserved, or forgotten—because that is precisely where Jesus would be.
 
But beyond all of this, what we hope you experience most is the love, peace, joy, and sense of belonging that make the ANCC a unique and vibrant part of Christ’s Church.
 
We would be honored to meet you.
 
Join us on Sundays at 12 PM for Mass at our parish in Melrose, Massachusetts, followed by snacks and fellowship. 

Come pray with us, share Eucharist with us, laugh with us, grow with us. To be added to our email notification list, fill out and submit a brief form by Clicking HERE.

Welcome to the ANCC. We want you to feel at home here!

(Our parish is a member of the American National Catholic Church (ANCC).  The ANCC is not affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church or the Archdiocese of Boston)