The Society of St Pius X (SSPX) was declared to be in formal schism with the Roman Catholic Church after consecrating four bishops without the approval of Pope Leo XIV on July 2, 2026, in Econe, Switzerland. This act has resulted in excommunication for those involved, including an estimated 600,000 followers worldwide.
Understanding the Society of St Pius X
Founded in 1970 by Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, the SSPX is a traditionalist Catholic movement that opposes many reforms introduced by the Second Vatican Council. The group believes these changes conflict with longstanding Church traditions.
Today, the SSPX operates globally, maintaining its own bishops and priests while rejecting the Vatican's authority. Despite its claims of being authentically Catholic, the Vatican has stated that the group lacks canonical status within the Church.
Consecration Ceremony and Its Implications
On Wednesday, four new bishops were consecrated during a five-hour ceremony at an SSPX seminary, attended by approximately 16,500 followers. The consecration rite involves a symbolic act where a bishop lays hands on the heads of new bishops, passing on the Holy Spirit.
Despite a warning from Pope Leo XIV about the severe consequences of proceeding without his consent, the SSPX carried out the ceremony. As a result, the bishops involved, including Pascal Schreiber, Michael Goldade, Michel Poinsinet de Sivry, and Marc Hanappier, face automatic excommunication.
Consequences of Excommunication in the Catholic Church
Excommunication is the most severe penalty under Catholic canon law, effectively barring individuals from receiving sacraments and participating in Church activities. The Church views excommunication as a temporary measure, intended to encourage repentance and reconciliation.
In a sermon, Father Davide Pagliarani, the SSPX's superior general, framed the consecration as a necessity to uphold traditional Catholic values, despite acknowledging that many might see it as rebellion.
- Founded: 1970
- Number of followers: ~600,000
- Consecration ceremony attendees: ~16,500
- Automatic excommunication: Applies to bishops and participants
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Al Jazeera. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
