The headline for Bobby Kerlik's news story “Rogue Catholics in Society of St. Pius X to reopen West End church” is not only misleading but also a bit bombastic. Those who are members of the Society of St. Pius X are by no means “rogue.” They are neither dishonest nor knavish nor renegade.
The Society of St. Pius X has never left the Roman Catholic Church. Perhaps a perusal of the literature available which outlines and explains both sides of the argument is in order.
There is without a doubt a difference of opinion between the society and Rome. In this age of mercy and “who am I to judge,” it seems there is a bit of hypocrisy on the part of many when it comes to the society.
As a practicing Roman Catholic, if a priest of the diocese were not available, I would welcome a Society of St. Pius X priest to my deathbed to give me both absolution and extreme unction using the form that existed prior to Vatican II.
Additionally, given no alternative, attendance at a Society of St. Pius X Mass without the deliberate intention of separating oneself from the pope and the church is not in any way sinful.
The West End will be blessed by the presence of the Diocese of Pittsburgh's former St. James Church.
Peter A. Caruso
West Mifflin
