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If the Europeans reconcile with Rome, look for Williamson to remain excommunicated.

Interesting, they already use different initials -- FSSPX vs. SSPX. Seriously though, I just stopped by the ITEM website and Fr. Aulagnier has uploaded a new commentary on Cardinal Hoyos' recent letter on the priesthood. Fr. Aulagnier finds it a very encouraging sign. The piece is extremely long, so I will just translate the conclusion. Keep in mind that he is addressing himself to Cardinal Hoyos:

"This is a doctrinal reminder of the most glorious and on the priesthood and on its apostolate. This reminder, without doubt, was written with affection, a paternal spirit, and much pastoral experience. Your Eminence, what you say of the priest and of his apostolate, is what Archbishop Lefebvre told us and taught us. If you wish it so, we are at your disposal! Without condition!"

This is a very encouraging sign, especially since I hear that a lot of other French SSPX clergy feel the same way. I cannot help but wonder, however, whether Fr. Aulagnier is dropping a hint, especially when I hear rumors that upward of 90% of the SSPX faithful and clergy in France are ready to reconcile if Rome will recognize their situation.

"This is a doctrinal reminder of the most glorious and on the priesthood and on its apostolate. This reminder, without doubt, was written with affection, a paternal spirit, and much pastoral experience. Your Eminence, what you say of the priest and of his apostolate, is what Archbishop Lefebvre told us and taught us. If you wish it so, we are at your disposal! Without condition!"

How wonderful! Thanks so much for the information.

God works in mysterious ways.

Fr. Auglagnier, like a lot of Frenchman, seems to be a wise and gracious man, and given his relationship to Lefebvre I would expect his opinions to be given a lot of consideration. It is encouraging to hear that many SSPX priests share his desire for reconciliation. From the posts one reads here, one gets the impression that the SSPX and it's American supporters are completely opposed to Rome.

Thanks for providing the European perspective.