35 Facts About David Bawden

Who is David Bawden?

David Bawden, also known as Pope Michael, is a unique figure in modern religious history. His story is filled with intriguing details that captivate those interested in religious movements and unconventional paths to leadership.

1. David Bawden was born on September 22, 1959, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
2. He was raised in a devout Catholic family, which influenced his religious beliefs from a young age.
3. Bawden attended seminary school but did not complete his studies to become an ordained priest.
4. In 1990, he declared himself Pope Michael, claiming the papacy was vacant since the death of Pope Pius XII in 1958.
5. His election as Pope Michael was conducted by a small group of six people, including his parents.
6. Bawden believes that the Second Vatican Council led the Catholic Church astray, prompting his claim to the papacy.
7. He has written several books and articles outlining his beliefs and the reasons for his papal claim.
8. Bawden operates a small chapel in Kansas, where he conducts Mass and other religious services.
9. Despite his claims, the mainstream Catholic Church does not recognize him as a legitimate pope.
10. He uses social media and the internet to spread his message and connect with followers worldwide.

Early Life and Education

David Bawden's early years and education played a significant role in shaping his future decisions. His upbringing and academic pursuits laid the groundwork for his later actions.

11. Bawden was homeschooled by his mother, who was a former teacher.
12. He showed an early interest in religious studies, often reading theological texts.
13. After high school, he attended a traditionalist Catholic seminary in Écône, Switzerland.
14. Bawden left the seminary due to disagreements with the faculty over the direction of the Catholic Church.
15. He continued his religious education independently, studying the works of pre-Vatican II theologians.
16. His self-directed studies reinforced his belief that the Catholic Church had deviated from its true path.

The Election of Pope Michael

The election of David Bawden as Pope Michael is one of the most unusual events in modern religious history. This section delves into the details of that election and its aftermath.

17. The election took place on July 16, 1990, in Belvue, Kansas.
18. The group that elected him consisted of six people: Bawden, his parents, and three other supporters.
19. They believed that a new pope needed to be elected to restore the true Catholic Church.
20. Bawden took the name Michael, inspired by the Archangel Michael, a symbol of protection and strength.
21. Following his election, Bawden began to wear traditional papal garments and adopted the title "His Holiness."
22. He established a small religious community in Kansas, where he continues to serve as pope.

Beliefs and Teachings

David Bawden's beliefs and teachings are rooted in traditionalist Catholicism. He holds views that are often at odds with the mainstream Catholic Church.

23. Bawden rejects the reforms of the Second Vatican Council, which he believes corrupted the Catholic Church.
24. He advocates for a return to the Latin Mass, which was largely replaced by the vernacular Mass after Vatican II.
25. Bawden emphasizes the importance of traditional Catholic doctrine and practices.
26. He believes that the mainstream Catholic Church has become too liberal and has strayed from its foundational teachings.
27. Bawden teaches that only a small remnant of true Catholics remains faithful to the original teachings of the Church.
28. He encourages his followers to reject modernist influences and adhere strictly to pre-Vatican II traditions.

Life as Pope Michael

Living as Pope Michael has been a unique and challenging experience for David Bawden. This section explores his daily life and the activities he engages in as a self-declared pope.

29. Bawden lives a modest life in a small house in Kansas, where he also conducts religious services.
30. He spends much of his time in prayer and study, continuing his theological education.
31. Bawden regularly communicates with his followers through letters, emails, and social media.
32. He has a small but dedicated group of followers who support his claim to the papacy.
33. Bawden occasionally travels to meet with supporters and conduct religious ceremonies.
34. He remains committed to his mission of restoring what he believes to be the true Catholic Church.
35. Despite facing criticism and skepticism, Bawden continues to uphold his claim as Pope Michael, believing it to be his divine calling.

The Final Word on David Bawden

David Bawden, also known as Pope Michael, is a unique figure in modern religious history. Born in 1959, he declared himself pope in 1990, claiming the Catholic Church had strayed from its true path. His election was unconventional, involving only six people, including his parents. Despite skepticism, Bawden remained steadfast in his beliefs, living a life dedicated to his version of Catholicism.

His story highlights the complexities within religious movements and the lengths individuals will go to uphold their convictions. Whether viewed as a visionary or a controversial figure, Bawden's life offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of self-proclaimed leaders.

Understanding his journey provides insight into the broader context of religious dissent and the personal stories that shape it. David Bawden's legacy, though debated, underscores the enduring power of faith and the diverse ways it manifests.