Pope Francis paves way for recognition of SSPX marriages

The Pope's decision approves a proposal made by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and the Pontifical Commission, Ecclesia Dei

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Continuing initiatives aimed at a reconciliation with the Priestly Society of St Pius X (SSPX), Pope Francis has made it possible for bishops to ensure the validity of marriages celebrated in the traditionalist communities.

A letter published by the Vatican on April 4 said the Pope will allow Catholic bishops to appoint priests to assist at SSPX marriages and formally receive the consent of the couples. The nuptial Mass then would be celebrated by the SSPX priest.

In addition, Pope Francis gave bishops the option of granting an SSPX priest the necessary faculties to officiate validly over the marriage rite "if there are no priests in the diocese" available to do so.

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