Vatican Backs Eviction of Latin Mass Community
CHRISTCHURCH — The Vatican has upheld Bishop Michael Gielen’s decision to expel the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer (FSSR), a traditional Latin Mass community, from the Diocese of Christchurch, New Zealand. On August 10, 2025, Gielen announced that the Vatican’s Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life rejected the FSSR’s appeal against their eviction, ordered in July 2024. The ruling removes priestly faculties from FSSR members, rendering any sacraments they celebrate illicit, and mandates their departure from the diocese.
The FSSR, established in 2012 on Papa Stronsay, Scotland, with a New Zealand house since 2014, denies any wrongdoing. Allegations of unauthorized exorcisms and cult-like behavior have surfaced in local media, but the FSSR insists these claims lack evidence and were not cited in the Vatican’s investigation. The community suggests Gielen’s decision may stem from their public opposition to COVID-19 vaccine mandates, which contrasted with the New Zealand bishops’ stance.
Facing potential eviction, the FSSR, which recently acquired a historic Anglican church, fears visa issues and separation for its members. The community calls the order “unjust” and warns of looming censures if they cannot comply.
Read also
ROCOR Priest Reflects on Trip to Capitol Hill
Archpriest Victor Boldewskul participated in the Society of St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco's Day of Action to raise awareness about the persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
Hundreds of Chinese Christians Arrested in Pre-Christmas Crackdown
Hundreds of Chinese Christians face spending Christmas in detention after authorities launched a sweeping pre-holiday crackdown on churches under Beijing’s campaign to control religious life.
Ukraine Adviser: UOC Not Banned, but Offered a 'Choice' of Jurisdictions
A Ukrainian presidential adviser said the UOC is not banned but pressured to choose between joining the OCU, submitting to Constantinople, or remaining unregistered, while dismissing international concerns as propaganda.
Indiana Reports 98% Drop in Abortions Under Stricter Law
Indiana’s latest health report shows a 98% drop in reported abortions under stricter laws, though dozens still occurred under legal exceptions and concerns persist about unreported pill abortions.
Armenian Apostolic Church Pushes Back on Political Encroachment
The Armenian Apostolic Church plans to appeal to international bodies to resist government interference and defend its clergy and sacred relics.
Attempted Takeover at Armenian Etchmiadzin Cathedral Thwarted by Faithful
Supporters of Armenian PM Pashinyan attempted to storm Etchmiadzin Cathedral amid calls for the Catholicos’s resignation but were blocked by parishioners and security.