Society of Saint Pius X appeals Vatican excommunication decree

The Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX) says its appeal against a Vatican decree of excommunication is currently under consideration in Rome. In a statement issued October 13, the Society said it is pursuing legal remedies provided by canon law but did not specify which authority is handling the case or if the Vatican has formally responded.

The conflict began in July 2026 after the SSPX consecrated four bishops without papal approval. The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, led by Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, subsequently declared that six bishops had incurred automatic excommunication.

On July 11, the SSPX lodged a preliminary appeal with the doctrinal dicastery, invoking canons 1734 and following of the Code of Canon Law. This step seeks to revoke or correct the administrative decree. The Society maintains that the appeal suspends the execution of the penalties while the proceedings are pending.