The Vatican has excommunicated several bishops and priests associated with the ultraconservative Priestly Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX) following the unauthorized ordination of four bishops. This action, confirmed by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, formally constitutes a schism within the Catholic Church. The ordinations took place in Écône, Switzerland, despite repeated warnings from the Vatican against proceeding. Excommunication, the most severe penalty in the Catholic Church, excludes individuals from participation in Church rituals until repentance and readmission are sought. The SSPX, founded in 1970 by Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, opposes changes implemented after the Second Vatican Council, specifically reforms to the Mass, including the use of vernacular languages and increased congregational involvement. The Vatican also warns that faithful members formally belonging to the SSPX risk excommunication as well.