Traditionalist Catholic Group Threatens Schism by Planning Unauthorized Bishop Consecrations
VATICAN CITY — The Priestly Society of St. Pius X (SSPX), a traditionalist Catholic group long at odds with the Vatican, has announced plans to consecrate new bishops without papal approval, threatening a formal schism with the Holy See. The society, which exclusively celebrates the Traditional Latin Mass and rejects certain reforms from the Second Vatican Council, declared it will hold the consecration ceremony on July 1, 2026.
Father Davide Pagliarani, superior general of the SSPX, stated that the group had sought an audience with Pope Leo XIV last August to request authorization for new bishops. Instead, the society received a letter from the Vatican that it says “does not in any way respond to our requests,” leaving the SSPX determined to proceed independently. Currently, the SSPX has two serving bishops: Bishop Bernard Fellay, a former superior general, and Bishop Alfonso de Galarreta.
The move marks a significant escalation in a conflict that has simmered for decades. The SSPX was founded in 1970 by Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre in opposition to changes introduced by the Second Vatican Council, particularly concerning liturgy and Church doctrine. The Vatican has repeatedly sought reconciliation, but the SSPX’s insistence on maintaining pre-conciliar traditions has complicated dialogue.
The Vatican’s refusal to grant approval for new bishops within the SSPX underscores the Holy See’s position that episcopal consecrations without papal mandate violate canon law and risk schism. The Holy See’s official communications emphasize the importance of unity under the Pope’s authority.
Observers note that the SSPX’s planned consecrations could deepen divisions within the Catholic Church worldwide. The society’s rejection of reforms such as the Novus Ordo Mass and its critique of modern theological developments have long placed it at odds with mainstream Catholicism. The planned ceremony, therefore, is seen as a direct challenge to papal primacy and Church unity.
In response to the announcement, Vatican officials have reiterated calls for dialogue and warned of the spiritual and canonical consequences of unauthorized episcopal ordinations. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has also expressed concern about the potential for increased fragmentation within the Church.
The SSPX’s decision follows a pattern of defiance that has included illicit episcopal consecrations in the past, notably the 1988 consecrations by Archbishop Lefebvre that resulted in his excommunication, later lifted by Pope Benedict XVI. However, the current situation appears more entrenched, with the SSPX openly rejecting Vatican overtures.
Religious analysts highlight the broader implications of this standoff, noting that it reflects ongoing tensions between traditionalist factions and the Vatican’s efforts to implement reforms and promote unity. The Catholic News Agency reports that the SSPX’s actions could inspire similar movements elsewhere, challenging the Vatican’s authority.
As the July date approaches, the global Catholic community watches closely. The Vatican’s response and the SSPX’s next steps will likely shape the future of traditionalist Catholicism and its relationship with Rome. For now, the threat of schism looms large, underscoring the fragile balance between tradition and authority within one of the world’s oldest religious institutions.
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