The media landscape and Vatican news
During the summer, news related to the Vatican often breaks and attracts the attention of the media. These news are not very different from the betrayals and internal rebellions that occur in political parties.
Recently, Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò has been the protagonist of one of these news stories. Viganò has been found guilty of the reserved crime of schism, which has led to his excommunication and expulsion from the Catholic Church.
The independence of Monsignor Carlo Maria Viganò
On July 4, American Independence Day, Monsignor Carlo Maria Viganò, who was nuncio to the United States, announced his total independence: he no longer considers himself Catholic. Viganò did not recognize the authority of the Pope and did not feel in communion with the Catholic Church. Furthermore, he renounced the Second Vatican Council and has been one of the archbishops most critical of the movements of Pope Francis.
Viganò’s excommunication, technically known as latae sententiae, is the most severe declaration of all. This excommunication implies that Viganò is prohibited from celebrating mass and other sacraments, as well as actively participating in celebrations, functions or acts of government of the Catholic Church.
Traditionalist dissident voices
Viganò represents the traditionalist dissident voices that do not feel represented by a Catholic Church that they consider to be no longer apostolic or Roman. Through his traditionalist platform called Exsurge Domine, Viganò has expressed his disagreement with the Second Vatican Council and the alleged ‘deviations’ of Pope Francis.
It is important to note that Viganò’s excommunication is not permanent and is contingent upon his repentance and return to communion with the Catholic Church. However, Viganò has stated that he will continue to celebrate Mass as if nothing had happened.
Viganò’s diplomatic journey
Viganò began his diplomatic career in 1989, when he was appointed Permanent Observer of the Holy See in the Council of Europe. Since then, he has held important positions within the Governatorate of Vatican City State.
Over the years, Viganò has expressed his desire to become a cardinal, but has failed to achieve that goal. His resentment has been directed not toward the Holy Spirit in a conclave, but toward Pope Francis, whom he considers his great enemy.
Conclusions
At 83 years old and with a combative attitude, Viganò has become a leading figure for traditionalist dissident voices. Although his excommunication is not final, his critical stance toward the Catholic Church and Pope Francis has generated controversy and division within the Catholic community.