[Theosis]

Doesn't the European headquarters of SSPX 'own' the institution per se in America? If Williamson split, could he legally take everything and everyone with him regardless of who wants to go?

This has been the subject of many rumours and much history. When the SSPX first came to North America, Lefebvre preferred that the local laity own the property, since for various reasons he felt the movement should remain as decentralized as possible. This would backfire in 1982-83 with the expulsion of the famous Sedevacantist 9 who became the Society of St. Pius V. The SSPV more or less took the faithful of their particular chapels with them, and hence much formerly SSPX property (and even one of their two American magazines). Although this was followed by a number of civil lawsuits between the SSPX and the SSPV, the courts ultimately ruled for the most part in favour of the SSPV.

Subsequently, the SSPX then began to take control of their Mass centers insofar as ownership was concerned. However, at different times different rumors have circulated. Reportedly, a good chunk of American SSPX property, including the seminary, is under the control of some sort of American corporation, of which Bishop Williamson is the CEO. I have never been able to confirm any of these rumours, however, enough of my Francophone and European friends have told me that the SSPX basically is willing to write-off North America to Williamson if a split came about.

[Canticle_of_Deborah]

Reportedly, a good chunk of American SSPX property, including the seminary, is under the control of some sort of American corporation, of which Bishop Williamson is the CEO. I have never been able to confirm any of these rumours, however, enough of my Francophone and European friends have told me that the SSPX basically is willing to write-off North America to Williamson if a split came about.

That's not good. If SSPX in Europe reunites and America splits off, I wonder if some SSPXers in America would be willing to go FSSP?