Schism with rebel Catholic sect casts a pall over Pope Leo’s visit to France
Summary
Pope Leo XIV’s upcoming visit to France is affected by tensions with the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX), a traditionalist Catholic group recently excommunicated by the Vatican after ordaining bishops without permission. The dispute reflects a deeper conflict within the Catholic Church about modern reforms introduced in the 1960s.Key Facts
- The Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX) is a conservative Catholic group that opposes changes made at the Second Vatican Council (Vatican II) in the 1960s.
- The Vatican excommunicated SSPX members in July for ordaining bishops without Pope Leo XIV's approval.
- SSPX members reject many modern practices, such as conducting Mass in the local language and religious freedom. They prefer Latin Mass and traditional rituals.
- The SSPX has about 600,000 followers worldwide, mostly in France and the US.
- The SSPX organizes an annual Pilgrimage of Christ the King in Lourdes, but local authorities have barred their events following the excommunication.
- Previous popes had tried to improve relations with SSPX, but Pope Leo XIV’s actions suggest a stricter approach.
- The Vatican’s recent declaration labels any layperson formally supporting SSPX as schismatic and excommunicated, which is a stronger stance than before.
- Pope Leo XIV aims to unify the Church around the reforms of Vatican II while maintaining peace.
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