Quick Bytes
- Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano faces a charge of schism by the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.
- Vigano is accused of denying the legitimacy of Pope Francis and rejecting Vatican Council II.
- The archbishop views the charge as an honor and stands by his criticism of modernist tendencies in the Church.
- Canonical proceedings could lead to excommunication, but the primary goal is repentance and potential lifting of penalties.
Archbishop Vigano’s Defiant Stance Amidst Vatican Schism Charges
Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, once a Vatican envoy to the U.S., is embroiled in a serious canonical dispute with the Catholic Church.
On May 10, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith (DDF) initiated an extrajudicial process against Vigano, citing his public statements that challenge the authority of Pope Francis and the outcomes of Vatican Council II. The charge of schism, a severe accusation in canon law, could result in excommunication. Vigano has been summoned to Rome on June 20 to present his defense, either in person or through legal representation.
Vigano, known for his forthright criticism of what he perceives as modernist shifts within the Church, has embraced the charges with pride, reaffirming his commitment to traditional Church teachings. He has been a vocal figure since his retirement in 2016, notably after exposing the McCarrick scandal in 2018 and voicing support for political causes like electoral integrity.
The archbishop’s case is being handled with the same abbreviated canonical procedure previously used in the trial of former cardinal Theodore McCarrick. While the process allows for a swift resolution, it ensures the accused’s rights are protected. Vigano’s response to the citation underscores his readiness to confront the allegations and maintain his stance on Church tradition and governance.
As the Church navigates this delicate situation, the outcome of Vigano’s case could have significant implications for the Church’s internal dynamics and its relationship with traditionalist factions.
