The Young Rite has its roots in the Liberal Catholic Church. Much of their tradition has been maintained. Yet there are many differences.
A basic precept is the voluntary nature of those who implement the work of the group. No one is paid for their services. The major differences may be summarized in three points:
Authority The traditional hierarchical structure of clergy versus laity is dismantled. Although the sacrament of Holy Orders remains intact, the path is open to all who wish to tread it. The decision to follow this path lies with the seeker. Authority lies with the individual.
Inclusiveness Inclusiveness in its widest sense means participation by all who wish to do so.
Diversity Unity means having an umbrella with defining characteristics. Any organisation must have its rules and dogmas. Yet, these should be restricted to those which are strictly essential. Unity is therefore found in the diversity of expression rather than in uniformity. The practical implication is that there is no governing body.
Churches and jurisdictions who subscribe to the tenets of the Young Rite may become members of the Young Rite by applying to the Council of Three. On acceptance they remain autonomous and maintain their own name and may mention their membership.
Clergy without a church or not falling under any jurisdiction may choose to work under the banner of the Young Rite. They need to apply to and on acceptance fall under the jurisdiction of the Council of Three. Such clergy may group themselves as circles and if they have an authorized celebrant may celebrate public services of the Young Rite.
The Young Rite was born with the consecration of bishop Marcus van Alphen on 4 June 2006 by the independent bishops Johannes van Alphen, Mario Herrera Jorges and Benito Rodriguez Cruz using the rite of the Liberal Catholic Church.
