Redemptorists of Papa Stronsay Declare Break With Vatican

 

The General Chapter of the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer (FSSR) has decided to break away from what they refer to as "the new, synodal Church".

Who They Are

The order is known as the Redemptorists of Papa Stronsay, Scotland. 'Papa Stronsay' means 'Priests' Island of Stronsay'. The community owns the Scottish island and leads an austere life in this remote location.

In 1987, the small congregation of the Roman rite affiliated with the Priestly Fraternity of St Pius X (FSSPX).

In 2007, the order expanded and established a new foundation in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Reconciliation With Rome

A reconciliation process with the Vatican began in 2008 under Pope Benedict XVI, and in 2012 the community left the FSSPX to become a clerical institute of diocesan right in the Diocese of Aberdeen, Scotland.

Following years of difficulties with the Christchurch Diocese, the community lost a final appeal in the Vatican in 2025 and was prohibited from remaining in New Zealand.

Declaration From the 2025 General Chapter

At the conclusion of the current general chapter on 16 October, the redemptorists stated in an open letter that "it is no longer possible to reconcile the Faith of our Fathers with the new religion promoted by the modern Church".

"We have come to the painful conviction that the institution presently occupying the structures of the Catholic Church has departed from the faith of the ages."

The letter denounces the “post-conciliar Church” and its “synodal path” for “errors in doctrine, liturgy, and moral teaching”.

The community does not specify any new ecclesial allegiance or superior authority. It stands "before God alone, trusting in His providence".

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