Traditionalist Catholic Group Defends Consecrations After Vatican Declares Excommunications

The Society of St. Pius X defended its decision Friday to consecrate four bishops without papal consent, stating the action was taken to provide sacramental care to the faithful. The group, known as SSPX, said the consecrations addressed what it described as a case of necessity. It added that its sacramental care is needed amid doctrinal and moral confusion in the church.

The Vatican declared the consecrations a grave violation of church law and issued excommunications against the group's bishops and priests within 24 hours. It also warned SSPX followers they could face excommunication for participating in the resulting schism.

The SSPX superior wrote to Pope Leo XIV that the sanctions were unjust and invalid. The letter stated the group would continue its work for the salvation of souls and would offer its suffering for the good of the church.

Background The SSPX was founded in 1970 by French Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre in opposition to reforms approved by the Second Vatican Council. The group celebrates the Latin Mass and rejects changes in the church's relations with other faiths. An ethics expert at The Catholic University of America said the Vatican's swift response signaled to SSPX members that they were participating in a schism.