A lay-driven Catholic network is offering pastoral support, formation, and access to the sacraments to people converting from Islam to Catholicism, especially in contexts where ordinary parish structures cannot adequately accompany them.
According to the National Catholic Register, the initiative, named St. Nicholas Tavelić Network for Morisco Catholics (TavNet), began to take shape informally online and was officially launched in August 2024 following a meeting held in Canterbury, England. It currently brings together around 300 members.
Pastoral Care in Sensitive Contexts
The network takes its name from St. Nicholas Tavelić, a 14th-century Franciscan friar martyred in Jerusalem after publicly proclaiming the Christian faith before Muslim authorities. The project’s goal is to offer solid catechesis, spiritual accompaniment, and access to the sacraments to converts who, in many cases, live their faith discreetly or in communities where they may face family or social pressure.
One of the founders, identified as Hasan for security reasons, explained to the U.S. media outlet that many converts experience particular difficulties, both in Muslim-majority countries and in diaspora communities in the West. Often, he noted, the main obstacles come from the family environment rather than from civil authorities.
The network carefully selects its members and collaborates with priests, benefactors, and volunteers to provide ongoing formation. It also facilitates access to psychological support when necessary.
Integration and Catholic Identity
The report highlights that some converts find it difficult to fully integrate into ordinary parish life. Hasan points out that certain catechesis models may be inadequate for people coming from structured religious contexts, such as practicing Islam.
TavNet seeks to offer spiritual continuity through practices such as praying the Rosary, reciting the Liturgy of the Hours, and a frequent sacramental life. Its leaders insist on maintaining a clear presentation of Catholic doctrine, highlighting both points of convergence and differences with Islam.
Marian Devotion and Centrality of the Eucharist
Both Hasan and other members quoted in the report emphasize the importance of the Virgin Mary in the journey of many converts, noting the special devotion to Our Lady of Fatima within the network. They also consider the Eucharist as the central sacrament in their faith journey.
Some testimonies gathered by the media speak of significant spiritual experiences, including dreams or visions that would have influenced their decision to embrace Christianity, a phenomenon that, according to the leaders, is occurring in various countries.
Call for Support
The network invites the faithful to collaborate through prayer—especially the Rosary—, fasting, and other spiritual practices, as well as through financial support or volunteering.
The initiative reflects the growth of communities of converts from Islam seeking specific accompaniment within the Catholic Church and poses new pastoral challenges in diverse cultural contexts.