Father Firmin Udressy, former superior of the German district of the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX), has recently made the decision to leave the Society to join the Community of Saint Martin. This news, confirmed by an official statement from the SSPX, has caused profound sadness within the movement founded by Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre.
A Departure that Saddens the SSPX
In its statement, the SSPX expresses its "profound sadness" at this separation, while underscoring its gratitude for Father Udressy's 20 years of priestly service. He held positions of great responsibility, notably as district superior in Germany from 2013 to 2019, and then in Switzerland. The Society assures him of its prayers and emphasizes the importance of praying for the perseverance of priests in their vocation, a reminder that resonates particularly in these times of crisis.
The SSPX also acknowledges the impact of this decision on the faithful and families attached to the Society. The statement concludes with a call to strengthen attachment to the Church and love for the traditional Mass, the so-called Mass "of all time," in the face of this trial. It is a moment of pain for the SSPX, especially in losing such a respected member, but also a reminder to persevere in fidelity to Tradition.
The Journey of Father Firmin Udressy
Of Swiss nationality, Father Udressy was ordained a priest in 2002. At 47 years old, he has decided to leave the SSPX to join the Community of Saint Martin, a choice that has surprised many of his confreres and the faithful. The Community of Saint Martin, although considered conservative, enjoys a good reputation and is experiencing significant growth, particularly in France. This change of course for Father Udressy raises questions about the reasons that led him to leave the Society, which remains firmly anchored in Catholic Tradition.
Also Read | The Condemnation of Surrogacy by the Holy See
The Community of Saint Martin: An Expanding Conservative Alternative
The Community of Saint Martin, which Father Udressy has chosen to join, is distinguished by its model of community life, the rigor of its studies, and its love for the liturgy. It forms priests and deacons for service in dioceses, with a spirituality marked by fraternal life and missionary mobility. This community, which sends its priests in groups of three to live and work together, attracts many vocations in France, where it is flourishing.
However, despite this growth, the Community has recently faced challenges. Indeed, this summer, the Vatican appointed two apostolic assistants to help with the governance of the Community, notably to clarify certain abuse accusations concerning its founder, Father Jean-François Guérin. Despite these investigations, the Community of Saint Martin remains an important actor in priestly formation, and its popularity continues to grow.