In Econe, Switzerland, a faction of traditionalist Catholics directly challenged Pope Leo XIV by consecrating four bishops without his consent. This act dismissed the resulting excommunications and schism, with the group calling it a “sacred duty” to protect the Catholic faith. The Society of St. Pius X (SSPX), known for opposing modern reforms in the Catholic Church, proceeded with the elaborate ceremony at its seminary. The American Pope had previously warned that such consecrations constituted a serious sin that could harm their faithful followers.
The event was marked by the tolling of bells and a procession of hundreds of priests to the altar under a tent, attended by thousands of Catholics who favor the traditional Latin Mass. The Mass, filled with rich vestments, chant, and incense, was livestreamed in multiple languages, showcasing the society’s global reach and appeal among conservative Catholics wary of modern secular influences.
The consecrations present a significant challenge for Pope Leo, who has been focusing on church unity and addressing tensions with traditionalists that intensified during Pope Francis’ leadership. The SSPX operates as an ultra-Catholic, pre-Vatican II church and claims thousands of members worldwide, without legal standing in the Catholic Church.
A Society Founded in Opposition
The SSPX was founded by French Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre in response to the modernizing reforms of the Second Vatican Council. These reforms, initiated in the 1960s, aimed to improve relations among Christians, Jews, and other faiths, while allowing Mass to be celebrated in local languages instead of Latin.
In 1988, Archbishop Lefebvre similarly consecrated four bishops without papal approval, leading to immediate excommunications by the Vatican. Although Pope Benedict XVI lifted these excommunications in 2009, the SSPX has been critical of what it sees as heresies within the modern church and views its actions as necessary to preserve the true faith.
During the recent ceremony, SSPX’s Rev. Davide Pagliarani justified the consecrations as crucial for saving souls and supporting Pope Leo and the church. He emphasized their love for the pope while protecting the church from false religions.
Consecrating bishops without papal approval incurs automatic excommunication and is a schismatic act in church law. The SSPX defends its actions, citing a “state of necessity” to serve its faithful. The new bishops are Pascal Schreiber, Michael Goldade, Michel Poinsinet de Sivry, and Marc Hanappier.
Celebration Amid Controversy
The event had the air of celebration despite heavy rain. Participants wore “Econe2026” caps, and a souvenir wine set was available for purchase. The field was lively with smiling clergy, scouts handing out water, and security guards ensuring order.
Attendees like Arlina Onglao from the Philippines and Wulfran Lindzondzo from France viewed the event as historic and expressed their commitment to tradition over fears of excommunication. Lindzondzo expressed hope that Rome might eventually embrace traditional practices.
However, not all traditionalists support the SSPX’s actions. Critics argue that disobeying papal authority contradicts serving church tradition. Rev. Robert Gahl, ethics expert, stated that adherence to church authority is essential.
The Vatican has not made an immediate comment on the event. The SSPX urged Pope Leo to delay any penalties but remains resolute in its beliefs despite opposing views from other Catholics.