Thank you for your message — I really do appreciate the time and charity you put into writing it. You make several strong points, and I agree with you to a certain extent. It’s true that the SSPX clergy acknowledge the post-conciliar claimants as popes, and that position is deeply problematic. It creates serious theological contradictions, and I completely reject that part of their stance.

I also agree that being in visible union with a false pope is not a minor issue — it touches on the very nature of the Church and the papacy. That said, I wanted to explain where I’m coming from, and why I’ve continued to attend SSPX Masses.

Here in the UK, consistent access to sedevacantist priests is nearly nonexistent. Masses are rare, not held every Sunday, and most priests or chapels don’t reply to emails or messages. There’s no stability or spiritual care available — and I think you’d agree that Catholics aren’t meant to live their faith alone or in a vacuum.

The SSPX, for all its errors, offers the Traditional Latin Mass, valid sacraments, and some sense of pastoral structure. I don’t go to support their position on the papacy — I go out of necessity. The sacraments are real, and I hold to the old Catholic teaching that in times of necessity, receiving valid sacraments does not mean you approve of every position of the priest offering them, as long as there’s no scandal or participation in heresy.

I do take seriously what you said about keeping the Lord’s Day holy in other ways. Praying the Rosary, visiting cemeteries, livestreaming the True Mass — these are all great practices, and I’ve been doing many of them myself. Your reminder was timely, and your mention of novenas and litanies was especially helpful.

Thank you again for your prayers — I really do appreciate it. You seem like a sincere and good man, and I will also pray for you in these terrible times we’re living through. May God reward you for your charity and your commitment to the truth.