Press Release from Fellay Concerning Bishop Williamson's Interview

We have learned of an interview given by Bishop Richard Williamson, a member of our , to Swedish television. In this interview, he comments on historical questions, particularly the question of the genocide of Jews by the National Socialists.

It is obvious that a Catholic bishop can only speak with ecclesiastical authority about matters concerning faith and morals. Our Society claims no authority on other matters. Its mission is the propagation and restoration of authentic Catholic doctrine, set forth in the dogmas of the Faith. It is for this that we are known, accepted and esteemed throughout the world.

We are deeply grieved to see how much harm the violation of this mandate can do to our mission. Bishop Williamson’s statements do not in any way reflect the position of our Society. This is why I have forbidden him, until further notice, to make any public statements on political or historical issues.

We ask forgiveness of the Sovereign Pontiff and of all people of good will for the dramatic consequences of such an act. While we recognize how inappropriate these declarations were, we can only note with sadness that the incessant accusations against our Society are also obviously intended to discredit it.

This we cannot accept, and we declare that we will continue to preach Catholic doctrine and administer the sacraments of grace of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

Menzingen, January 27, 2009

+Bernard Fellay Superior General

F SAIN Y O T T PI IE U C S O X S

U N T I C T I E R D T I S S T A T E S D SOCIETY OF SAINT PIUS X United States of America District Headquarters Regina Coeli House 11485 N. Farley Road Platte City, MO 64109 816-753-0073 tel 816-753-3560 fax [email protected] www.sspx.org