Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, a prominent critic of Pope Francis, has been excommunicated by the Vatican after being found guilty of schism. Vigano, known for his ultra-conservative views and opposition to the Pope's reforms, refused to recognize the legitimacy of Pope Francis and the Second Vatican Council. Despite his excommunication, Vigano remains defiant, continuing to express his views on social media and rejecting the authority of the Vatican's doctrinal office.
In a significant move that underscores the deep divisions within the Catholic Church, Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano has been formally excommunicated by the Vatican. This decision comes after Vigano, a former papal nuncio to the United States and a vocal opponent of Pope Francis, was found guilty of schism for his persistent refusal to acknowledge the Pope's authority and his rejection of the Second Vatican Council's teachings.
The Vatican's Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith announced that Vigano was guilty of schism after a detailed review of his public statements and actions. These included his severe criticism of Pope Francis, whom he accused of heresy, and his denial of the legitimacy of Vatican II reforms. The excommunication, which is one of the gravest penalties in the Church, bars Vigano from participating in any Church sacraments, a decision aimed at underscoring the seriousness of his offenses.
Despite the severe ecclesiastical penalty, Archbishop Vigano remains unrepentant. He has taken to social media to reiterate his stance, rejecting the Vatican's authority and even framing the accusations and subsequent excommunication as an 'honor.' Vigano continues to engage with his followers, promoting his views against what he perceives as the errors and heresies of the current papacy.
The excommunication of Archbishop Vigano is indicative of broader ideological battles within the Catholic Church, particularly between traditionalist elements and those advocating for reform under Pope Francis. This event may catalyze further debates and possibly deepen divisions, as Vigano has become a symbol for a faction of conservatives who feel marginalized by the current ecclesiastical leadership.
The excommunication of Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano marks a significant moment in the ongoing struggle within the Catholic Church over its future direction and identity. While it aims to reaffirm the authority of the Pope and the doctrinal office, it also highlights the persistent and deep-seated tensions that are likely to influence the Church's path forward.
"What was attributed to me as guilt for my conviction is now put on record, confirming the Catholic Faith that I fully profess." - Carlo Maria Vigano