German SSPX leader optimistic on reaching agreement with Vatican
March 27, 2012
The German district superior of the Society of St. Pius X (SSPX) sees “good reason for hope” that the traditionalist group can ultimately reach an accord with the Vatican, despite a setback earlier this month.
On March 16 the Vatican announced that it could not accept the SSPX response to a “doctrinal preamble,” which had been suggested as the basis for an agreement regularizing the traditionalist group. But Father Franz Schmidberger, the German SSPX leader, said that the Vatican statement left reason for optimism.
“Despite the unpleasant tone used in the letter, there is good reason to hope for a satisfactory solution,” Father Schmidberger said in a letter to German SSPX members. He said that the Vatican was encouraging SSPX leaders “to react more positively” to the doctrinal preamble.
Father Schmidberger urgently requested prayers from SSPX members for the success of continued talks with the Vatican, saying that a solution to the conflict is within reach. “If this solution would be reached it would considerably strengthen all the orthodox forces in the Church,” he wrote. “If not it would weaken and discourage these forces.”
The Vatican has asked Bishop Fellay to respond to the latest query by April 15.
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Further information:
- Lefebvrians: “There is good reason to hope for a solution” (Vatican Insider)
- Vatican says No to deal with traditionalists (CWN, 3/16)
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Posted by: demark8616 -
Mar. 29, 2012 3:00 AM ET USA
"...sucess of continued talks". I don't want to seem a spoil-sport, but this indicates further procrastination on the part of SSPX to submit to the authority of the Holy Father. Father Franz Schmidberger is known to be ultra-right and 'was' militant in his reluctance to give this obedience. His 'war talk' has resounded within the walls of Tradition for many years. “Despite the unpleasant tone used in the letter.." should give something of a clue to the objective observer!!
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Posted by: bkmajer3729 -
Mar. 27, 2012 9:11 PM ET USA
TO All SSPX Members and Ecclesial Leaders - Please come back. Please do not let difference separate us in a Church unified by Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ - crucfied for you and me. Our Church is in desperate need of strength and reform in many areas in the so called "developed" countries. Please be that beacon of strength and courage so desperately needed in a world driven by fear and the mirage of power.
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Posted by: normnuke -
Mar. 27, 2012 8:37 PM ET USA
This is good news. I have heard Bp. Fellay speak at some length, and he impresses greatly with his earnest intelligence, sincerity, and good will. This is a truly excellent season of the year for all to pray for a good outcome.
