The Vatican has excommunicated six ultra-conservative Lefebvrist clerics—two bishops and four priests—after they were ordained in Switzerland without papal approval and against the expressed will of Pope Leo XIV.
The decision was issued by the Vatican office responsible for safeguarding doctrine, which stated that the clerics had committed “an act of a schismatic nature.” The Holy See also warned that the sacraments celebrated by the excommunicated clergy are to be considered invalid and indicated that measures may also be taken against lay faithful who consistently support their ministry.
According to the Vatican, extensive efforts had been made to restore full communion between the Holy See and the movement founded by Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, but those efforts did not produce the desired outcome. Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin expressed hope that dialogue could eventually resume and lead to a resolution.
The Lefebvrist movement is known for its strong attachment to traditional Catholic practices, including the Latin Mass, and its opposition to several reforms and pastoral initiatives adopted by the contemporary Catholic Church.
Founded in 1970 by French Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, the Society of Saint Pius X has long had a complicated relationship with Rome. The movement currently includes approximately 720 priests, around 700 churches, and an estimated half a million followers worldwide.
Source: ANA-MPA
