Diocese of Knoxville revokes priest's faculties over SSPX ties

Bishop James Beckman of the Diocese of Knoxville, Tennessee, has revoked all faculties, permissions, and authorizations for Fr. David Mary Engo. The revocation follows Engo’s association with the Society of St. Pius X (SSPX).

The diocese issued a statement declaring that Engo is not authorized to exercise public priestly ministry within the diocese. This action follows the suppression of all diocesan Traditional Latin Masses (TLMs) in Knoxville on January 1, 2026, in accordance with Traditionis Custodes.

The diocese has not approved the establishment of any SSPX missions, chapels, or apostolates within its jurisdiction. The faithful are urged not to attend religious activities organized by Fr. Engo or provide material or organizational support for the establishment of an SSPX apostolate in the area.