Breakaway Catholic Group Begins Bishop Consecrations Without Papal Approval

A breakaway Catholic group began consecrating four bishops at its seminary in Écône, Switzerland, on Wednesday morning without papal approval. The Vatican had warned that the ceremony would constitute a schismatic act and could result in excommunication for participants. The action follows a letter Pope Leo XIV sent Tuesday urging the group to preserve Church unity.

Background on the Dispute The Society of St.

Pius X last carried out unauthorized bishop consecrations in 1988. Those earlier actions led to excommunications and a prolonged disagreement with Rome. The superior of the society responded to the pope's letter by asking him to refrain from sanctions.

He stated the group seeks to serve the Church through extraordinary means rather than separate from it. Church officials have said that consecrating bishops without authorization crosses a line because bishops hold responsibility for maintaining unity with Rome.

The Vatican has maintained dialogue with the group for years despite theological differences. This is a developing story.