"Traditionalist Tensions: The Fractured History of the Society of St. Pius X The recent controversy surrounding the Society of St. Pius X (SSPX) and its strained relationship with the Catholic Church is just the tip of the iceberg. Founded in 1970 by French Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, the SSPX was excommunicated by Pope Leo XIII in 1884 for ordaining bishops without papal approval, a move that has continued to spark debate within the Church. However, the issues between the SSPX and the Vatican go far beyond this single incident, with deep-seated disagreements over doctrine, liturgy, and the role of the papacy in modern Catholicism. As the SSPX continues to navigate its complicated history, one question remains: can this traditionalist group find a path forward in harmony with the Church?"
The Society of St. Pius X was excommunicated by Pope Leo for ordaining bishops without his permission. Its issues with the church run far deeper.