THE Diocese of Cubao urged the faithful to welcome the displaced followers of the traditionalist Catholic group, Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX), after the Vatican excommunicated the group.
The Vatican earlier this month warned Catholics to stop going to SSPX Masses, stating that “those who adhere formally” to the society are also schismatic and excommunicated.
In a pastoral letter on late Tuesday, July 7, Cubao Bishop Elias Ayuban Jr. urged the faithful to avoid condemning those who have been displaced, calling instead for “pastoral sensitivity and tact.”
“Since our Holy Mother the Church now asks her sons and daughters who have been associated and continue to be associated with the Society to no longer participate in their liturgies, I urge the clergy and the faithful of the Diocese of Cubao to welcome them with charity, understanding, and patience,” he said.
He further explained that “bishops and priests of SSPX may be reconciled with and readmitted to the Catholic Church should they decide to leave the SSPX.”
Meanwhile, followers of the SSPX were urged to stop participating in its liturgies to avoid invalid sacraments or risk excommunication.
On July 2, the Vatican announced that the SSPX would be excommunicated after the group ordained four new bishops in Switzerland without the Pope’s approval.
To ensure a smooth transition for Catholics leaving SSPX chapels, Ayuban said the diocese is also rolling out concrete logistical support to assist the displaced flock.
