Lo scisma dei lefebvriani in arrivo: 4 nuovi vescovi e addio alla Chiesa cattolica

The Italian newspaper Il Giornale recently published an article highlighting several developments in both political and religious spheres, including a new tax policy in the Flemish region of Belgium targeting employers who hire migrant workers, as well as the growing rift within the Catholic Church involving the Lefebvrists—a traditionalist group that has long been at odds with the Vatican over doctrinal issues. The piece also touches upon the election of a new mayor in Milan and broader reflections on current global and national affairs.

The Flemish government announced plans to introduce a new tax aimed specifically at companies seeking to employ foreign workers. Under this policy, each application submitted by an employer would incur an additional cost of 180 euros. This measure is intended to shift the financial burden onto the businesses rather than the local population. The minister responsible for labor in the Flemish region emphasized that the initiative aims to ensure that employers take full responsibility for hiring migrants, rather than placing the cost on citizens. While the exact implementation date was not specified, the policy reflects a broader trend among European nations grappling with migration challenges and economic pressures.

In parallel, the Lefebvrists, followers of the late French priest and theologian Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, have taken significant steps toward formalizing their separation from the Roman Catholic Church. Their movement, which originated in response to the reforms introduced during the Second Vatican Council (Vatican II), has historically resisted modernization efforts within the Church. Lefebvre himself was excommunicated in 1988 after consecrating four bishops without papal approval, a move that led to his formal exclusion from the Church. However, Pope Benedict XVI later attempted to reconcile the group by lifting the excommunication, though Pope Francis did not follow suit.

Now, under the leadership of Don Davide Pagliarani, the Lefebvrists are preparing for a definitive break with the Vatican. They plan to consecrate four new bishops—Pascal Schreiber of Switzerland, Michael Goldade of the United States, and two French priests, Michel Poinsinet de Sivry and Marc Hanappier—on July 1st. This action is seen as a necessary step to maintain the continuity of their tradition, especially as two of their existing bishops, Bernard Fellay of Switzerland and Alfonso de Gallareta of Spain, grow older. The group’s website now features a countdown to this event, offering themed merchandise such as wine bottles labeled with ecclesiastical symbols and wearable items like caps bearing the Lefebvrists' emblem.

The Lefebvrists’ decision to formally separate from the Church highlights deep theological and ideological divisions. While they reject many aspects of Vatican II, including its emphasis on ecumenism and liturgical reform, the Vatican maintains that these changes are essential for the Church's unity and relevance in the modern world. According to the Vatican, reconciliation would require a miracle, given the fundamental differences between the two sides. Meanwhile, the Lefebvrists continue to celebrate the Tridentine Mass, a traditional form of worship conducted in Latin, which they view as more spiritually profound than the newer liturgical practices promoted by the Church.

The article also references political figures and movements in Italy, noting the potential for alliances and shifts in power dynamics. It mentions former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi and his possible role in forming a broad coalition to counterbalance other political forces. Additionally, the text humorously comments on the absurdity of certain situations, such as a young man attempting to ride an electric scooter on a highway, underscoring the unpredictable nature of contemporary life.

As these developments unfold, the future remains uncertain. Whether the Lefebvrists will achieve lasting independence from the Vatican or eventually find common ground remains to be seen. Similarly, the impact of the Flemish tax policy on employment and migration patterns could shape regional policies in the coming years. These events reflect larger trends in Europe, where traditional institutions face increasing scrutiny and pressure to adapt to changing social and economic realities.