Saturday, April 20, 2013

Rebel Cath. Group Begins Criticism of New Pope; SSPX Rips Francis' "Man-Centered Philanthropy"

A rebel Catholic group -- which was at the heart of major controversies that plagued former Pope Benedict -- has begun criticizing his successor, Pope Francis, for the popular approach he has taken since his election last month, the Worldwide Religious News website reports today (April 20, 2013).

In a letter to supporters this week, the head of the ultra-traditionalist Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX) asked whether the new pontiff's focus on serving people could be only "man-centered philanthropy" rather than true religious leadership.

Bishop Bernard Fellay's sharp criticisms of the Vatican attracted attention during Benedict's papacy because the now-retired head of the Roman Catholic Church wanted to reintegrate the once-excommunicated group fully into the Roman fold.

Francis -- the former Argentine Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio -- has upset many Catholic traditionalists by avoiding Vatican pomp, presenting himself as a humble servant of the poor, and showing little interest in returning to centuries-old traditions.

No comments:

Post a Comment