Rising Tensions Between the Society of St. Pius X and Vatican

The Society of St. Pius X (SSPX), a traditionalist priestly group, is preparing to defy the Vatican by consecrating four new bishops at its seminary in Écône, Switzerland. This decision, scheduled for July 1, could lead to automatic excommunication, according to the Vatican. Performing these ordinations without papal approval is considered a ‘schismatic act’ under canon law.

Pope Leo XIV, who assumed the papacy in May 2025, faces this as one of his first major challenges. He has warned that these actions could deepen the divide within the Catholic Church. Despite his appeals, the SSPX remains steadfast in its decision, claiming a commitment to their principles. They argue that with only two bishops left, new consecrations are vital for their future ministry.

We would rather die than renounce our principles.

The divide relates to broader discussions within global Catholicism. Traditionalists like the SSPX prefer older liturgical practices, while church leaders have pursued reforms since the 1960s. This ongoing disagreement has historical roots dating back to 1970, when the SSPX was founded by French Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre in response to the Second Vatican Council’s changes, which he felt contradicted Catholic tradition.

Recent Developments in the SSPX-Vatican Dispute

Earlier this year, the Vatican offered to reopen theological talks with the SSPX, hoping to resolve long-standing differences. However, these talks require the SSPX to abandon their plans for new bishop consecrations, a condition the society has rejected.

The Vatican’s Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández warned that going ahead with the ordinations would result in excommunication for the parties involved. This echoes the 1988 incident when Archbishop Lefebvre consecrated four bishops without papal endorsement, leading to excommunications that were lifted in 2009 as a gesture of reconciliation.

SSPX’s Rationale

Father Davide Pagliarani, SSPX’s superior general, defends the consecrations as necessary. He points to the society’s growth, which saw an increase in priests from 582 in 2015 to 733 by 2025, and argues that more bishops are needed to meet the demand for traditional sacraments.

The SSPX maintains its position, citing a ‘state of grave necessity’ due to unresolved doctrinal issues with the Vatican. They argue this justifies proceeding without papal approval.

Reactions from Pope Leo XIV and SSPX Supporters

Pope Leo XIV highlights the importance of unity in the church, noting the risk of a serious rift. He acknowledges the SSPX’s refusal to accept some elements from the Second Vatican Council but hopes for possible dialogue.

Supporters of the SSPX, such as José LoMonaco, argue in favor of the consecrations due to the society’s growth and need for traditional bishops to continue its mission.

The forthcoming bishops—Michael Goldade from the U.S., Pascal Schreiber and Michel Poinsinet de Sivry from France, and Marc Hanappier from France—represent a younger leadership generation for the SSPX, ranging in age from 36 to 53.