Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, a prominent conservative critic of Pope Francis, has been excommunicated by the Vatican.
The Vatican’s doctrine office imposed this penalty due to Viganò’s refusal to acknowledge the authority of the Pope, reject communion with other Catholics under his authority, and deny the legitimacy of the Second Vatican Council.
Excommunication means Viganò is formally expelled from the Church and cannot participate in its sacraments due to committing the serious offense of schism, which undermines Church unity.
Viganò, known for his controversial views on various topics including COVID-19 and conspiracy theories, had gained attention for arranging a meeting between Pope Francis and Kim Davis during Francis’ 2015 U.S. visit.
This action had caused significant controversy within the Church and contributed to ongoing tensions between Viganò and Pope Francis.
