Priest in Marabá Excommunicated for Joining Traditionalist SSPX

The Diocese of Marabá announced that priest Antônio de Pádua Souza has been removed from all ministerial duties and automatically excommunicated after formally joining the Fraternity of Saint Pius X (FSSPX). Bishop Vital Corbellini cited canon law, declaring the priest’s action a crime of schism, which carries the penalty of excommunication.

The Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith reaffirmed that sacraments performed by the priest, including confessions and marriages, are considered null and invalid. The bishop warned that Catholics who officially align with the SSPX and break communion with the Pope may also face canonical sanctions, urging the faithful to avoid participation in any activities organized by the fraternity.