[sinkspur]

Which brings us back to Gibson's construction of a church. Who authorized him to do so?

If Mahoney didn't authorize construction of this chapel, then he's building it extra-ecclesia, that is, without proper authority.

Who will bless it and consecrate the altar? Isn't that normally the function of the bishop?

Yes. If he intends to use it for the SSPX, then an SSPX bishop (Williamson or Fellay) will have to consecrate the building.

[B Knotts]

One possible inaccuracy in this article, which could make a huge difference: the author refers to Mel Gibson's place of worship as "Church of the Holy Family," whereas other sources refer to it as "Holy Family Chapel."

If I recall correctly, a church must be authorized and consecrated by the diocesan bishop, whereas a chapel need not be. Does that sound right to you?