SSPX Defies Vatican, Ordains Bishops in Malta
In the heart of Rabat, Malta, a stone’s throw from the ancient Roman Villa, a quiet revolution is brewing. The breakaway Catholic sect, the Society of St. Pius X (SSPX), has once again defied the Vatican, this time by ordaining new bishops in a ceremony held in the quaint town’s very own St. Mary’s Church.
Defying Rome’s Wishes
The SSPX, with its Maltese headquarters in the historic town of Rabat, has a history of challenging Rome’s authority. Founded in 1970 by Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, the society has consistently refused to accept the Second Vatican Council’s reforms, earning it a status of schismatic by the Vatican. Yet, their followers remain steadfast, drawn to their traditional Latin Mass and conservative interpretations of Catholic doctrine.
The recent ordination of three new bishops, held in the atmospheric St. Mary’s Church, is a clear sign that the SSPX is not backing down from its stance. The Vatican, however, has been swift to condemn the move, stating that the ordinations are a “grave breach of communion with the Pope, causing considerable scandal.”
Maltese Devotion and Division
Malta, with its overwhelming Catholic majority, has long been a bastion of traditional faith. The SSPX’s presence here, though small, is significant. Their followers, drawn to the society’s unyielding stance on doctrine, find solace in the familiar rituals and interpretations of the faith. Yet, their defiance of Rome also divides the local Catholic community, with some viewing them as misguided or even schismatic.
Father George, a local priest who requested anonymity, told Hot Malta, “It’s a complex situation. While I respect their devotion, I also believe they’re causing harm to the unity of the Church. But who am I to judge? I can only pray that they find their way back to communion with the Pope.”
: A Path to Reconciliation?
The Vatican has repeatedly extended olive branches to the SSPX, seeking dialogue and reconciliation. In 2009, Pope Benedict XVI even issued a decree lifting the excommunications of SSPX bishops, a move that was met with mixed reactions. However, the recent ordinations suggest that the society remains unwilling to compromise.
For now, the SSPX continues to serve its followers in Malta, offering traditional Mass and spiritual guidance. Their future, like the ancient Roman Villa that stands as a silent witness to their defiance, remains uncertain. if a path to reconciliation can be found, or if the SSPX will continue to stand apart from Rome, a small but steadfast presence in the heart of Rabat.
