Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre

Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre was a French Catholic leader and founder of the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX), a religious organization focused on preserving traditional Catholic practices and beliefs. He served as an archbishop but became known for opposing some reforms of the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), especially regarding issues like liturgical changes and interfaith relations. His stance led to tensions with the Vatican, culminating in his excommunication in 1988 after he consecrated bishops without papal approval. Lefebvre remains a controversial figure—respected by those who value traditional Catholic rituals and criticized by others for his opposition to the post-Vatican II Church.