Inside this special edition, Fr. Themann's talk: "The SSPX Falsely Accused: Resistance to What?"
On April 16, 2013, Fr. Daniel Themann was invited to give a conference (entitled "The SSPX Falsely Accused: Resistance to What?") on the subject of some concerns occasioned by the recent talks between Rome and the SSPX.
In the conference he spoke of accusations and alleged "facts" purported to prove that the Society has abandoned its original mission of transmitting unblemished the Faith received from the Catholic Church. Father's clear exposition of the real facts shows, rather, that the SSPX has been found faithful.
Inside this issue
Letter from the District Superior
The past months have been full of incidents: we have especially learned of the abdication of Benedict XVI and observed the election of Pope Francis. Read more>
Summary of Fr. Themann's talk
Fr. Themann begins by clearly explaining the concepts and distinctions necessary for an understanding of the question. He then indicates principles that served as guidelines in the various exchanges between Rome and the Superiors General. Of particular interest is the comparison of Archbishop Lefebvre's attitude during the 1987-1988 talks with the Holy See and Bishop Fellay's dealings with the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith in 2012-2013.
Timeline
The timeline included in this issue helps put in perspective the complex discussions in question. It also renders clearer the two-fold guiding principle followed by our Superiors General: attachment to Rome and defense of the Faith. Clearly visible also are the expansion of Tradition in the last 25 years and the good fruits it has procured for the Church.
Miscellaneous accusations
The only change in the SSPX's policy is a prudential tactical change whose goal is to help push the Vatican closer to acknowledging the errors of Vatican II. Some have tried to find more ammunition by accusing the Society of selling out. It is impossible to keep up with all the accusations that are made because the multiply daily, but herein are listed some othe them.