Episcopal Consecrations of 1 July 2026: A Historic Moment for the Society of Saint Pius X

On 1 July 2026, the feast of the Most Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX) marked one of the most consequential days in its recent history. At the Seminary of Saint Pius X in Écône, Switzerland, before a large gathering of priests, religious, seminarians, and lay faithful, the Society witnessed the episcopal consecration of four new auxiliary bishops: Pascal Schreiber, Michael Goldade, Michel Poinsinet de Sivry, and Marc Hanappier.

The ceremony was presided over by Bishop Alfonso de Galarreta, with Bishop Bernard Fellay assisting. Fr. Davide Pagliarani, Superior General of the Society, was present, along with clergy and faithful from around the world who traveled to Écône for what the Society described as a moment of "profound joy" and "a very great grace."

A Ceremony Without Papal Authorization

In its official statement, the Society expressed sincere regret that the consecrations were carried out without authorization from the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. The SSPX emphasized that this situation arose from "exceptional circumstances," and noted its disappointment that Fr. Pagliarani was not granted a personal audience with the Pope to present the Society's concerns and explain the reasons it believed the consecrations were necessary.

This acknowledgment reflects the Society's longstanding tension with the Holy See - a relationship marked by intermittent dialogue, doctrinal disagreements, and periodic attempts at reconciliation. By stating its regret, the Society sought to underline that the decision was not made lightly, but rather out of what it considers a grave pastoral necessity.

Why the Consecrations Matter

The SSPX framed the consecration of four bishops as essential for safeguarding what it calls the "sacred heritage of Tradition." As auxiliary bishops without jurisdiction, the newly consecrated prelates will assist in ordinations, confirmations, and the sacramental life of the Society's worldwide apostolate.

The Society stressed that these consecrations ensure the continuation of its liturgical and doctrinal mission - particularly its commitment to the traditional Roman liturgy and pre‑conciliar theological positions. In the SSPX's view, the presence of additional bishops is not merely administrative but foundational to its identity and survival.

A Moment of Thanksgiving

Despite the canonical irregularity, the Society's statement radiated a tone of celebration and gratitude. It described the event as a "very great grace for the Society itself and for the whole Church," expressing deep joy at what it sees as the preservation of the fullness of the priesthood within its ranks.

The SSPX also offered a fervent act of thanksgiving, invoking the intercession of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary and attributing the successful transmission of episcopal orders to her maternal protection. The statement concluded with a prayerful hope that the consecrations would serve "the greater glory of God, the honour of Holy Church, and the salvation of souls."

A Turning Point for the SSPX

For supporters of the Society, 1 July 2026 will be remembered as a milestone - a day when the SSPX secured its future leadership and reaffirmed its mission. For observers within the broader Catholic world, the event raises familiar questions about the Society's relationship with Rome, the prospects for reconciliation, and the implications of episcopal consecrations performed without papal mandate.

Regardless of perspective, the ceremony at Écône stands as a significant moment in contemporary Catholic history, one that will shape the Society's trajectory for years to come.