Tensions rise in the Catholic Church as the traditionalist faction, the Society of St. Pius X, threatens to cause a schism, prompting an Argentine cardinal to seek reconciliation.
Nearly a year after his election, Pope Leon XIV faces the danger of a potential crisis with the traditionalist Society of St. Pius X, a faction founded in 1970 by French Bishop Marcel Lefebvre. This group is seen by many as a direct challenge to the authority of the Vatican, reminiscent of a previous schism that began when Lefebvre unilaterally ordained four bishops in 1975, which ultimately led to the group losing its official recognition within the Church.
In 2009, Pope Benedict XVI lifted the excommunication on the Lefebvrians and under Pope Francis, they gained the ability to hear confessions and celebrate weddings. Despite these concessions, the Society, which now boasts 733 priests but only two aging bishops, has not attained an official legal status in the Catholic Church, placing it in a precarious position. The increasing numbers and the discontent of the traditionalists suggest a deeper crisis that the Church must confront to prevent a repeat of history.
Specialist Martin Drumond comments on the resurgence of tensions indicating that the Catholic Church is once again entangled in a problem that could escalate. The Church's attempts at reconciliation with this group will be crucial in avoiding a schism, which could fracture the unity within the Church and have lasting implications for its followers worldwide. The actions of the Argentine cardinal in mediating between the Vatican and traditionalists will be crucial in navigating these troubled waters.
