And there are yet others who perceive real, alarming problems, agreeing in part and denying in part, the accusations made in the book. Some of the points made are valid, others are rash and ill-considered. These people take a "wait and see" approach realizing that it is premature to denounce the entire SSPX and start their own group. They see the threshold for departure is not yet met, with a view to history and what would justify an adverse separation with fellow catholics. In other words, we ask: what is the standard by which one is forced to "relocate" historically speaking? The only answer is when the Faith is endangered. Look at the history of religious congregations and you will clearly see a pattern of health and decline. Many saints were members of corrupted congregations but through their work, a restoration was effected.
The reasons set forth by those who have separated are insufficient thus far, even agreeing with some of the assessments. They understand that there is a range of opinions and a disagreement about practical matters doesn't necessarily involve an evil to be avoided. We may be approaching a time when separation will be necessary but we have not arrived there yet. I know others who think along the same lines. The problem with those who "jumped ship" is that it is purely natural to look for any reason at all to justify their position no matter how unjustified and consequently censure anyone who may disagree. This of course is a dangerous precedent especially when their priests eventually disappoint on some matter.
Hi Kevin-
Leaving aside your judgment about “jumping ship prematurely,” I just wanted to clarify, per the Preface of the book itself, that my intention in writing the book was never to dissuade people from attending the SSPX (though many have tried to use it for that purpose),
but to lay out the facts for posterity. I myself attend the SSPX in the absence of a Resistance priest (which is unfortunately most of the time).
People will first have to assess the evidence I laid out, then process what it means for them.
Happy Easter,
Sean