Background and the Open Letter

On 24 June 2026, the Priestly Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX) sent an open letter to Pope Leo XIV and the College of Cardinals. Signed by Superior General Davide Pagliarani and other superiors, the letter was dated the feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist. Along with the letter, the society attached a 28‑page “Profession of Faith” that outlines what it sees as the principal errors and dangers confronting the Church today.

Purpose and Theological Emphasis

The SSPX stated that its intention was not to propose a separate path but to present what it considers the “bimillennial Tradition” faithfully preserved by the Apostolic See. The document emphasizes a return to the Latin Mass and a rejection of reforms introduced by the Second Vatican Council, which the society believes have led the Church into “new forces … driving her in every possible direction except … the right one.” By offering the profession of faith “in the hands of Pope Leo and the cardinals,” SSPX leaders framed the move as an invitation to dialogue rather than a declaration of separation.

Impending Consistory and Planned Ordinations

The letter arrived just before an extraordinary consistory scheduled for 26–27 June at the Vatican. At the same time, SSPX announced plans to consecrate four new bishops at its headquarters in Ecône, Switzerland, on 1 July, a step that would be performed without papal mandate. Under canon law, such illicit episcopal ordinations can trigger automatic excommunication, a fact that underscores the gravity of the society’s decision.

Vatican Response and Wider Implications

As of the letter’s publication, the Holy See had not issued a public response. Pope Leo XIV later indicated he was considering further appeals to the society in hopes of averting a deeper rift. The episode highlights ongoing tensions between traditionalist groups and the Vatican, especially on issues such as liturgical language, ecclesial authority, and the interpretation of Vatican II reforms. While the SSPX asserts that its actions are driven by “practical necessity” and not a desire to create a parallel hierarchy, the prospect of illicit ordinations continues to challenge the unity of the worldwide Catholic community.

Conclusion

The SSPX’s open letter and forthcoming ordinations bring to fore a long‑standing clash over tradition, authority, and the future direction of the Church. Whether the profession of faith will open a sincere channel for discussion or deepen the divide remains uncertain, but the upcoming consistory and the July consecrations will undoubtedly shape the dialogue between Pope Leo XIV and traditionalist Catholics for years to come.