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SSPX to Ordain Bishops, Defying Vatican Authority

2/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Society of St. Pius X (SSPX) will ordain bishops on July 1 without Vatican approval.
Fr. Davide Pagliarani, SSPX superior general, says consecrations are needed to secure the society's future.
The SSPX claims 700 priests serve 500,000 people.
The move tests the Vatican's response to the SSPX's defiance, as the group maintains a presence in France and the U.S.

History

Historical Context

In 1988, Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre ordained four bishops without Vatican approval, defying Pope John Paul II's authority and leading to the excommunication of both Lefebvre and the bishops. This act solidified the Society of St. Pius X (SSPX) as a traditionalist faction within the Catholic Church, now claiming over 700 priests and 500,000 followers, and continues to challenge Church authority, particularly in France and the U.S.

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Story summary

The Society of St. Pius X (SSPX) will ordain bishops on July 1 without Vatican approval.
Fr. Davide Pagliarani, SSPX superior general, says consecrations are needed to secure the society's future.
The SSPX claims 700 priests serve 500,000 people.
The move tests the Vatican's response to the SSPX's defiance, as the group maintains a presence in France and the U.S.

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