More than 140 Catholics from Toronto have asked Cardinal Frank Leo to mediate in the escalating conflict between the Vatican and the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX), a breakaway conservative priestly group. The SSPX plans to consecrate four priests as bishops on July 1 without Pope Leo XIV’s consent, risking excommunication.
Recently, a group of Catholics delivered a letter to Cardinal Leo supporting SSPX’s consecrations, asking him to engage with the pope for what they termed as ‘paternal approval’ of the consecrations. The group emphasized their request was made with ‘charity and pastoral concern.’
José LoMonaco, who organized the letter with his wife, believes the ordinations are crucial for preserving tradition in the Roman rite, asserting that traditional bishops are vital for continuing the consecration process.
What Does the Letter Say?
The signatories identify as ‘faithful Catholics residing in Toronto, united by a strong love for the Catholic, Apostolic, and Roman Church.’ Though not SSPX members, most attend SSPX chapels in the Greater Toronto Area.
The group aligned itself with a Declaration of Catholic Faith recently presented to the pope by SSPX Superior General Father Davide Pagliarani. They see this declaration as reinforcing their desire for spiritual growth through tradition.
The letter serves as both a profession of faith and a plea to church authorities to approve the consecrations. Neither the Vatican nor Cardinal Leo has responded publicly.
SSPX Doubles Down on Unapproved Consecrations
The SSPX has revealed the names of the priests it plans to consecrate: Father Michael Goldade from the United States, Father Pascal Schreiber from Switzerland, and Fathers Michel Poinsinet de Sivry and Marc Hanappier, both from France.
Before the announcement, Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández warned the SSPX that proceeding without papal permission would constitute ‘a schismatic act.’ This would result in excommunication and a formal break with the papacy. Nevertheless, SSPX remained resolute, with Pagliarani stating they would rather face death than abandon their principles.
The Growing Rift Between Rome and SSPX
The conflict between the Vatican and SSPX dates back over 50 years. Founded in 1970 by French Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, the SSPX challenged reforms from the Second Vatican Council, such as changes to liturgy and interfaith relations.
In 1988, Lefebvre’s consecration of bishops without papal approval led to a schism and excommunications. Although some penalties were later lifted, the SSPX remains canonically irregular in the Catholic Church.
While acknowledging the pope and most Catholic teachings, the SSPX continues debating with Rome over deviations from traditional doctrine. Specifically, they criticize the 2023 declaration Fiducia Supplicans, which allowed blessings for certain relationships outside of traditional marriage. SSPX argues that these blessings muddle Catholic moral teachings.
Efforts by successive popes to reconcile with the SSPX have repeatedly failed, often stymied by disagreements over the Second Vatican Council and modern pastoral initiatives.