SSPX leader called to Vatican for meeting
August 23, 2011
The head of the traditionalist Society of St. Pius X (SSPX), Bishop Bernard Fellay, has been called to the Vatican for a meeting on September 14.
News of the meeting has revived speculation that the Vatican and the SSPX may be close to an agreement that could regularize the status of the breakaway traditionalist group.
In 2009, Pope Benedict XVI lifted the excommunications that had been imposed in 1988 on the bishops who head the SSPX. However those bishops remain suspended from ministry.
Earlier this year representatives of the Vatican met with SSPX leaders for a series of theological talks. Those talks ended in June without any major announcement, but informed sources said that the two sides were working toward a canonical agreement that could end the split.
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Further information:
- The Vatican summons the head of the Lefebvrists (Vatican Insider)
- Vatican talks with SSPX concluded; both sides silent on next step (CWN, 6/17)
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Posted by: -
Aug. 24, 2011 12:07 PM ET USA
As always, pray for unity!
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Posted by: koinonia -
Aug. 23, 2011 10:00 PM ET USA
Pope Benedict has made remarkably courageous decisions during his pontificate. Bishop Fellay has requested the recitation of literally millions of Rosaries for the Pope. The moment before us is unique. The unprecedented nature of the Holy Father's candid and generous "concessions" to the SSPX's requests is remarkable. May the Holy Spirit facilitate the commencement of restoration rooted in the Deposit of Faith and in the supernatural graces entrusted by Our Lord to Holy Mother Church.
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Posted by: imanxufan9901 -
Aug. 23, 2011 7:44 PM ET USA
Lets hope the Vatican realizes there are a lot of Catholics who belong to SSPX,this one included,who believe in the traditional ways.
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Posted by: -
Aug. 23, 2011 5:32 PM ET USA
Now this is something interesting! Beyond that, it is couched in a decorous lack of yapping on the part of the press and other media.
