Thoughts?
February 12, 2025
Feast of the Seven Holy Founders
Dear Brother Priests, Religious, and Faithful of the Society of St. Pius X:
I write to share my decision to step away from ministry in the SSPX. Over the past few years, my view of the crisis in the Church has changed significantly. Despite sincere efforts to find a way forward with the Society, my recent cordial audience with the Superior General gave me the clarity to know that I can no longer presume to represent its interests.
I realize that this news may come as a surprise. Not wanting to disturb anyone's peace, I chose the path of discretion rather than sow confusion or appear to disrupt the Society's mission of saving souls. My intention has been to address this sensitive matter in a way that respects both the faithful and the integrity of the Society.
Now I find myself in the challenging position of conveying my decision to leave while still showing due respect to the
SSPX. Inevitably, such a decision points to serious disagreements. Nevertheless, I do not wish to deny or diminish the real good that the Society accomplishes. Its provision of the sacraments and valuable Catholic formation to so many, along with all that it has done for me, are things for which I am deeply grateful.
My departure stems from theological conviction and the demands of conscience that follow. Specifically, I have come to the conclusion that the Holy See has been vacant since the Second Vatican Council a conclusion with profound implications for the apostolate. While this statement requires elaboration, the limited scope of this letter does not permit it. Suffice it to say that when I entered the seminary, I was confident that certain doctrinal questions had been resolved. Over time, however, my confidence in those resolutions eroded. I can only hope that those of you who know me best will understand the gravity of the deliberation behind my conclusion even if you disagree wholeheartedly.
As indicated above, I have made every effort to accommodate myself to the practical mission of the SSPX, hoping it possible to continue serving as a Society priest while holding to and acting on my convictions. But it has become clear to me that such an arrangement is, under the present circuмstances, unsustainable in the long run.
If this announcement brings confusion or discomfort, please be assured that my foremost concern is to avoid undermining your spiritual peace. I share this news only to provide some context to a decision that I could no longer realistically postpone. Regardless, I implore you to remain steadfast in the practice of the one true faith, continuing to cooperate with God's grace, as I strive to do and trust that you do as well.
Although I must leave the Society, my commitment as a Catholic priest to the salvation of souls remains unwavering.
To this end, I humbly request your prayers as I discern how best to serve Holy Mother Church in keeping with my vocation. 'The friendships and pastoral encounters that I have enjoyed in the SSPX remain precious to me, and I have no intention of distancing myself from anyone who wishes to keep in contact. May Our Lord grant us the grace to remain umited in charity, even when our paths diverge.
In the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary,
Reid Hennick
Fr. Reid Hennick
P.S. I am not opposed to this letter being shared for information purposes, but I do ask that the amicable nature of my departure be respected. As the theological matter referenced here is already much misunderstood, in your charity, please ensure that the letter not become a pretext for stirring up existing hostilities among traditionalist clergy and faithful.
Topic: Fr Hennick turns to sedevactism (Read 9105 times)