Vatican Takes Unprecedented Step
In a rare and severe move, the Vatican has excommunicated Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, one of Pope Francis’s harshest critics. This action comes after Viganò repeatedly refused to recognize Pope Francis’s authority and criticized the liberal reforms of the Catholic Church since the 1960s.
Background on Archbishop Viganò
Archbishop Viganò, a former Vatican ambassador to the United States, has been outspoken in his criticism of Pope Francis. He has even called for the pope’s resignation and made harsh remarks, including labeling Francis as “a servant of Satan.”
Punishment Highlights Growing Tensions
The excommunication of Viganò signals a significant escalation in tensions within the Catholic Church. It reflects Pope Francis’s diminishing tolerance for criticism from within the church hierarchy, especially those who challenge his authority in strong and disrespectful ways.
Reasons for Excommunication
The Vatican’s Dicastery of the Doctrine of the Faith cited Viganò’s refusal to recognize Pope Francis’s authority, reject communion with fellow Church members, and disregard the legitimacy of the Second Vatican Council. These actions were deemed to constitute schism, a serious breach of unity under the pope.
Impact of Excommunication
As a result of the excommunication, Archbishop Viganò is barred from participating in Catholic sacraments such as Communion, ordaining priests, or officiating Mass. While he retains his clerical title for now, further disciplinary actions, including defrocking, could follow if he remains unrepentant.
Read Frank Krishner’s Analysis of the excommunication here
Response and Future Outlook
Viganò did not participate in his trial, arguing against the authority of Pope Francis and Vatican officials. Instead, he announced plans to continue saying Mass for supporters and soliciting donations for his foundation.
Changing Dynamics Under Pope Francis
Under Pope Francis, the Vatican has begun taking more decisive actions against dissent within the Church. This shift is exemplified by recent moves, such as stripping Bishop Joseph Strickland of his diocese and sanctioning Cardinal Raymond Burke.
Significant Move
Archbishop Viganò was previously known as a figure beloved by conservative U.S. Catholics critical of Pope Francis’s leadership and the Church’s direction towards more openness and reform.
The excommunication of Archbishop Viganò marks a significant moment in the ongoing internal dynamics of the Catholic Church under Pope Francis. It underscores the Pope’s determination to maintain unity and discipline within the Church, even at the cost of alienating some of its most vocal critics.