Catholic group that defied pope and caused schism defends its actions and casts itself as the victim
A traditionalist Catholic group, the Society of St. Pius X (SSPX), has defended its recent consecration of four bishops without papal consent, an act that led to their excommunication by Pope Leo XIV.
The story so far
- Jun 30
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Open questions and key claims
The Pope warned the move was a 'sin of extreme gravity' and could deepen a decades-old split with the Church.
The Society of St. Pius X defended its decision, stating there is a 'state of necessity' requiring it to provide bishops for its faithful.
The ordinations are considered a 'schismatic act' and a 'sin of extreme gravity' by the Pope.
Pope Leo XIV described the ordination as a 'schismatic act' that could 'tear the seamless garment of Christ'.
The consecration ceremony was called an act of schismatic nature by the Vatican.
The ordinations were called a 'schismatic act' and a 'sin of extreme gravity' by Pope Leo.
The SSPX believes the ordination of bishops faithful to Catholic tradition is a sacred duty.
The Vatican stated that sacraments administered by SSPX ministers are illicit, and penance and marriages are invalid.
Who and where
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