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Pope Leo XIV faces his first crisis with a threat of schism

For the Vatican, papal consent for the consecration of bishops is a fundamental doctrine, guaranteeing the lineage of apostolic succession from Christ’s original apostles — For the Vatican, papal consent for the consecration of bishops is a fundamental doctrine, guaranteeing the lineage of apostolic succession from Christ’s original apostles (AFP via Getty Images)

Pope Leo XIV is confronting a major crisis as the traditionalist Society of St Pius X (SSPX) plans to consecrate new bishops without papal consent, threatening a revival of schism.
The Swiss-based SSPX, which opposes the modernising reforms of the 1960s Second Vatican Council, previously caused a schism in 1988 by consecrating bishops without Vatican approval.
Consecrating bishops without papal consent is considered a grave threat to church unity and a direct cause of schism, incurring automatic excommunication under church law.
Previous attempts at reconciliation, including Pope Benedict XVI lifting excommunications and easing restrictions on the Latin Mass, were complicated by controversies and later reversed by Pope Francis.
Despite Pope Leo XIV's efforts for dialogue, the SSPX stated it must proceed with consecrations on July 1 to safeguard its future, though the Vatican indicates negotiations remain open to avoid rifts.

Pope Leo XIV faces first major crisis as traditional Catholics announce plans without Papal consent — In full