[NYer]

This is why the SSPX is not in schism but in an irregular situation with Rome.

Schism Refusal to obey the rightful authority of Divinely constituted hierarchy of the Church. A person who knowingly and obstinately disobeys the hierarchy is called a schismatic. Canon Law #751 says "Schism is the withdrawal of submission to the Supreme Pontiff or from communion with the members of the Church subject to him."

I realize that the SSPX prays for the pope at their masses but, according to this definition (from www.ourladyswarriors.org web site), the SSPX is in schism. What am I missing?

[Canticle_of_Deborah]

The SSPX is not in schism. They recognize and submit to the Pope's authority but they do not obey commands which are contrary to the Faith as it has existed for 2000 years.

Obedience to human beings is not the supreme virtue. If it was, then it would be better to obey heretics (Mahony, Weakland, etc) than adhere to the Faith itself. The Magisterium are the custodians of the Faith. They are to be obeyed as long as they teach what has always been taught.

Obedience to the Faith as it has existed for 2000 years is what is required. That is why it is so important to be educated in the Faith and why so many souls are being led astray and lost.

[ultima ratio]

Here is what you're missing. Refusal to obey authority is always contingent on what is commanded. No authority has the right to command someone to do what is evil--for example, to do something enormously damage to the faith. Not even a pope may command this. If he does, he must be disobeyed. This is why Canon Law explicitly exempts from punishment anyone morally inculpable.

[ultima ratio]

damage=damaging

[nickcarraway]

Canon Law #751 says "Schism is the withdrawal of submission to the Supreme Pontiff or from communion with the members of the Church subject to him."

By this standard many bishops and religious orders in the United States are schismatic. Perhaps the majority?