Marcel Lefebvre

Marcel Lefebvre was a French Catholic Archbishop and theologian known for his traditionalist views. He opposed many reforms of the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), advocating for preserving older church practices and teachings. In 1970, he founded the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX), a group dedicated to maintaining traditional Catholic liturgy and beliefs, often conflicting with mainstream church directions. His efforts led to tensions with the Vatican, culminating in his excommunication in 1988 after he consecrated bishops without papal approval. Lefebvre remains a key figure in the divided landscape of Catholic traditionalism.