The Vatican has declared the ultratraditionalist Society of St. Pius X (SSPX) to be in schism after the group consecrated four bishops without papal approval.

Pope Leo XIV’s  decision goes beyond previous disciplinary measures, extending excommunication to SSPX bishops and priests and warning followers who formally support the movement. The dispute centers on the SSPX’s rejection of key reforms introduced by the Second Vatican Council, raising fresh questions about unity, authority and tradition within the Catholic Church.