Pope Francis and Liberal Priests

There’s a myth that Pope Francis only disciplines conservative priests. But let’s look at facts. He excommunicated Father Greg Reynolds from Australia for heretical teachings approving of same-sex unions and ordaining women. He also excommunicated Father Roberto Francisco Daniel from Brazil for saying homosexuality isn’t a sin.

This challenges the narrative promoted by influential figures who twist facts about Pope Francis and the Church. These are often highly educated, persuasive individuals who know exactly how to manipulate language to mislead others.

Frank Pavone: A Complex Case

When I reached out to Frank Pavone for an interview, I was excited. His ministry was nearby, and his team was welcoming. However, a trusted priest friend of mine warned me against it. He explained that, although Pavone was a fierce advocate for the unborn, he was disobedient to his bishop. In the Church, obedience is critical, especially for priests.

Think of it like the military. No matter how heroic a soldier may be, disobeying direct orders carries severe consequences. Pavone’s refusal to return to Texas, his home diocese, after years of leniency, contributed to his discipline. Allegations of inappropriate conduct also surfaced, and although he wasn’t found guilty, it added to the rationale.

Father James Martin, the German Bishops, and Nancy Pelosi

Why Hasn’t Father James Martin Been Excommunicated?

People often ask: “Why hasn’t Father James Martin been excommunicated?” Because he hasn’t said anything formally heretical. He’s very careful with his words. He says things like “I wish the Church would change its language” rather than outright dissent. It’s subtle, but it’s within bounds.

Pope Francis and the German Bishops

Regarding the German bishops, Pope Francis took action. He warned them and even sent Cardinal Fernandez to caution them against blessing same-sex unions. They backed off. But critics ignored this, refusing to acknowledge Pope Francis’ intervention.

Nancy Pelosi and the Eucharist

As for Nancy Pelosi, Bishop Cordileone banned her from receiving the Eucharist after consulting with Pope Francis. The Pope advised following guidelines set by Cardinal Ratzinger (later Pope Benedict XVI), stating that persistent pro-abortion politicians must be denied Communion if they refuse correction.

Bishop Strickland and the Fine Line

Some ask, “What about Bishop Strickland?” He wasn’t excommunicated, but he was asked to resign. Why? Because he read a letter publicly claiming Pope Francis wasn’t the legitimate Pope. While technically quoting someone else, he failed in his duty to correct such misinformation.

Compare that with saints like Padre Pio, who respected Church authority even when disciplined. The difference is humility and obedience.

SSPX and SSPX Resistance: Understanding the Distinction

Let’s talk about the SSPX and its splinter group, SSPX Resistance. The Resistance rejects all of Vatican II and believes there hasn’t been a valid Pope since then. They believe the Ordinary Form of the Mass is intrinsically evil, even though they claim to believe in the Real Presence of the Eucharist. Their beliefs veer into dangerous territory.

Archbishop Vigano, once a mainstream figure, has now aligned with this extremist group. He supports re-baptism and re-ordination—both mortal sins according to Church teaching. It’s tragic that someone who once held such a respected position has gone so far astray.

Strickland’s Influence and the Need for Discernment

Strickland, unfortunately, has been influenced by these groups. While he hasn’t outright endorsed their teachings, his associations raise concerns. According to sources, he’s unwilling to fully condemn Vatican II or the Ordinary Form of the Mass. This ambiguity is dangerous.

Still, I believe Bishop Strickland is a good man who has been deceived. As Scripture warns, Satan masquerades as an angel of light. We must pray for Strickland’s return to full communion with the Church.

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Pope Leo XIV and the Path Forward

Some people are hopeful that Pope Leo XIV will reinstate Strickland. But they forget: Pope Leo, as Cardinal, recommended that Pope Francis discipline him. Without true repentance, reinstatement is unlikely.

Likewise, when SSPX bishops appeal to Pope Leo to ordain more bishops, he will uphold the same conditions as his predecessors: full acceptance of Vatican II and cessation of condemning the Ordinary Mass.

Rebellion is Demonic

Scripture is clear: rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft (1 Samuel 15). It is demonic. Disobedience within the Church is not holiness—it’s a rejection of God’s order.

The Work Ahead

Pray that Pope Leo can bring about healing and unity, not just within these fringe groups but also with our Orthodox brothers. They too reject Vatican II and question the Pope’s authority. There’s much work to be done.

Stay Catholic. Pray for Pope Leo XIV. And ask Pope Francis to pray for you.

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