Vatican Sanctions Breakaway Catholics Over Unapproved Ordinations
The Vatican declared the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX) in schism and excommunicated four bishops who ordained new bishops without papal approval, along with the two bishops who participated. The decree also says priests and lay members who formally adhere to the SSPX are excommunicated, and any marriages or confessions performed by the group will be considered invalid. Pope Leo XIV had warned the ordinations would be a “schismatic” act, and Cardinal Parolin expressed sorrow, emphasizing the church’s intent to preserve unity while welcoming those who seek full communion in the future.