Summary
In a statement from the Office of Religious Faith, Pope Francis’s Prefect Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández outlined plans for a specific theological dialogue between the Congregation for Religious Institutes and the Society of St. Pius X (Piusbrüder) on July 1st. The Piusbrüder were advised to postpone their planned ordinations until further discussions could be held, which would require agreement from the congregation. According to Cardinal Fernández, these consultations aim to clarify theological issues such as the distinction between a “fides actus” (a religious act) and “religiose Ehrerbietung des Geistes und des Willens” (devotion to God’s spirit and will). If approved by the Piusbrüder, the discussions would result in an agreed-upon draft of a canonical status for the congregation. However, Cardinal Fernández emphasized that refusal of obedience could lead to schism, as it would violate canon law and the teachings of Vatican I and II. The statement also urged all Catholics to pray for guidance from the Holy Spirit during this period of dialogue.
Key Topics
Vatican City, Piusbruderschaft St. Pius X, Schisma
