Traditionalist SSPX to consecrate four bishops without papal approval

The Society of St. Pius X (SSPX) announced that it will hold a four-day, livestreamed ceremony at its seminary in Écône, Switzerland, on July 1 to consecrate four new bishops without the consent of Pope Leo XIV. The group, which celebrates the traditional Latin Mass and opposes post-Vatican II reforms, said the rite is intended to preserve the administration of sacraments according to the "traditional rite of the Holy Roman Church and the immemorial Faith."

The Vatican has warned that the consecrations constitute a schismatic act and a grave offense that incurs automatic excommunication for the bishops and anyone participating in the rite. Pope Leo XIV said the decision reflects the SSPX’s refusal to accept core elements of the Church, adding that while he regrets the division, the Holy See must move forward.

SSPX superior Rev. Davide Pagliarani justified the plan by citing a “state of necessity” to ensure pastoral care, noting that the two surviving bishops from the 1988 consecrations are elderly. The group will also ordain several new priests at the event.

Scholars and traditionalist groups have reacted with criticism. Massimo Faggioli, a theology professor, described the SSPX’s approach as “Traditionalism 2.0” aimed at maintaining a distinct ultra-traditional identity. Joseph Shaw, head of the Latin Mass Society of England and Wales, said the public nature of the ceremony contrasts with clandestine ordinations by other fringe groups. Luigi Casalini of the Messa in Latino blog called the consecrations “grievously unlawful” and questioned the SSPX’s claim of necessity.

The SSPX has organized extensive logistics for participants, including accommodation, car-pooling, and a souvenir wine set marketed as a “Cuvee des Sacres” gift box. The event underscores the ongoing tension between the Vatican and the SSPX, which remains outside canonical recognition despite a global network of priests, seminarians, and lay faithful.