Summary
On February 12, 2026, a meeting took place between Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández and General Superior Don Davide Pagliarani of the Society of Saint Pius X (SVPX), with the approval of Pope Francis. The SVPX is a traditionalist priestly congregation that has been separated from full communion within the Catholic Church since 1988 due to their opposition to certain Vatican reforms, including the appointment of non-Catholic bishops as cardinals and the use of Latin instead of vernacular languages in Mass. Recently, the SVPX announced plans for a series of new dialogue rounds with the Vatican, but this will only occur if they abstain from holding any more episcopal consecrations. This move follows their announcement earlier in July to consecrate two bishops on July 1st, which prompted a meeting in Rome where Cardinal Fernández and Pagliarani discussed theological issues. The SVPX is facing significant challenges, including the loss of its last two bishops who are both aged over 65. Their leader, Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, founded the congregation, died in 1991, and they have their headquarters in Mënzingen, Switzerland. Despite previous attempts to reconcile with the Vatican in 2009 when Pope Benedict XVI reinstated some of the bishops, there are concerns about a potential schism if the SVPX continues holding episcopal consecrations without papal approval.
Key Topics
Vatican City, Piusbrüder, Bishop appointment
