Vatican warns SSPX it risks excommunication

The Vatican has warned the Society of St. Pius X, a breakaway Catholic group, against ordaining new bishops without Pope Leo's consent, stating it would lead to automatic excommunication. The Vatican's doctrinal office expressed that such an action would create a "schism" with the Church. Cardinal Victor Fernandez said the planned ordination is a "grave offence against God."

The Society rejects reforms from the Second Vatican Council, preferring the traditional Latin Mass. Excommunicated members cannot receive sacraments or hold Church office. The Society, with around 733 priests, has had a contentious history with the Vatican. Its founder faced excommunication in 1988 for similar actions. Only the pope can authorize bishop consecration to maintain the Church's apostolic ties.