Yesterday, at Ruffec (Indre Department, Centre, France), Bishop Fellay [the Superior General of the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Pius X - FSSPX / SSPX] received the first vows of a religious woman of the Society [the Sisters of Saint Pius X]. In the end of his sermon, he addressed the ongoing discussions with Rome.
SSPX Bishop Fellay
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If nothing, or close to nothing, has been said, it is because things are more complex than they may appear.
Rome has presented two proposals to the Fraternity of Saint Pius X: one doctrinal, the other canonical. Neither one, nor the other are clear. These two texts are modifiable, they can be rewritten, their essence being preserved. The problem is to find out what the essence is. There are lots of questions, but not many answers.
Rome moves one step towards the Fraternity. The latter must examine it seriously. The texts will be the object of a very attentive study. The Fraternity will not sign a text that is not clear. It will not do anything that may diminish its Faith or the spirit of its Faith. And it will not make a move if it is not certain of the good intentions regarding it. And, according to each different curial prelate that is questioned, a different response may be obtained.
It is a decisive phase, which, whatever its outcome, will not be without consequences. [Source: Fecit-Forum, author: Austremoine]Commentary. I will be blunt. I do not trust the SSPX, and I do not think they are proceeding in good faith toward reconciliation. If it happens, Glory be to God. But this warning by Bishop Fellay, this “trial balloon” doesn’t portent good things.
You see, the SSPX presumes to dictate to the Successor of Peter the conditions for their full reconciliation with, and regularization within, the Church. I see in them an understated arrogance and a impenitent pride and this cost them their credibility.
The Holy Father has bent over backwards to reconcile this rebellious flock and this flock, instead of showing deference towards the Successor of Peter, and humility, still posture and pressure to get their way. They are positively ungrateful.
Fixing the ills of the Church is not going to be accomplished by inflicting more evil upon her. This, the SSPX has been historically incapable of comprehending. But, I still believe in miracles despite the shortcomings of the SSPX.
Let us pray for them, for their repentance, conversion, and ultimate reconciliation with the One, True Church built upon St. Peter and his successors in the Roman See.
