Pope Leo XIV has issued a direct appeal to the Society of St Pius X, urging it to abandon its planned episcopal consecrations and warning that carrying them out would constitute a “schismatic act” with grave consequences for the faithful attached to the fraternity. Addressing the letter personally to the SSPX’s Superior General, Fr Davide Pagliarani, the Pope combines warm praise for the society's devotion to the liturgy, priestly formation and fidelity to Tradition with an urgent plea not to proceed.

The letter, dated 29 June on the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, represents Pope Leo’s most direct intervention yet in the dispute over the SSPX’s announced consecrations. While stressing that the Church remains open to “a path of dialogue and understanding”, the Pope warns that the proposed episcopal ordinations would deprive the faithful of the licit – and in some cases valid – reception of the sacraments, before concluding with an emotional appeal: “Please turn back.”

The Catholic Herald republishes the full text below.

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To The Reverend
Davide Pagliarani
Superior General
of the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Pius X

With a paternal heart, and aware of the responsibility entrusted to me by the Lord as the Successor of the Apostle Peter, I address you and, through you, the bishops, priests, seminarians and faithful connected to the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Pius X.

The Church recognizes the devotion to liturgical life, commitment to priestly formation, apostolic zeal and desire for fidelity to Tradition that characterize many people and communities connected to your Fraternity. This has motivated the attentive and generous attitude that my Predecessors have consistently shown to you.

In this spirit, and filled with Christian affection, I plead with you and ask you with all my heart: please turn back! I urge you to consider carefully the spiritual good of the faithful, because the schismatic act you are about to undertake would deprive them of the licit and, in some cases, even valid reception of the Sacraments, which they love and seek for their sanctification.

The Church is open to a path of dialogue and understanding that the Holy Spirit can make possible and fruitful.

I pray for you, because to tear the seamless garment of Christ is a sin of extreme gravity. May the Lord enlighten your consciences and awaken your hearts. With a sorrowful yet hopeful heart, I feel it is my duty, through the authority received from Christ, to ask you to desist from your intended act. I entrust these intentions to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mother of Good Counsel.

From the Vatican, 29 June 2026

Solemnity of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul

LEO PP. XIV

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