Bishop Hugh Gilbert of Aberdeen, Scotland, declared Fr. Michael Mary
Sim, 72, Superior of the Transalpine Redemptorists, excommunicated on
July 25.
After publically embracing the religion of sedevacantism
in May, he was found guilty of schism. Although the consecration as
Sedevacantist bishop took place on the same day the diocesan judgment
was published, Bishop Gilbert clarified that the canonical trial had
been completed before the ceremony and therefore did not include the new
offense in its verdict.
Bishop Gilbert stated that Fr. Michael
Mary was found guilty on multiple ecclesiastical charges, the most
serious being schism: "As a result, he is declared to be excommunicated,
dismissed from ecclesiastical office, and prohibited from the
celebration of Mass or the other sacraments."
The diocese said the Vatican's competent dicasteries had been informed throughout the process.
Bishop
Gilbert also noted that the penalties could be lifted should Fr.
Michael Mary sincerely repent and seek reconciliation with the Church.
He instructed the faithful of the Diocese of Aberdeen not to have dealings with the community.
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