Vatican Excommunicates Vigano for Schism, Insults

The Vatican has excommunicated Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano for schism, citing his refusal to recognize Pope Francis' authority and the legitimacy of the Second Vatican Council's reforms. Vigano, a former Vatican ambassador to the U.S., has been a vocal critic of Pope Francis, labeling him a 'false prophet' and 'servant of Satan,' and accusing him of covering up sexual abuse by Cardinal Theodore McCarrick. The excommunication means Vigano cannot celebrate or receive sacraments and is formally outside the Church. Vigano has embraced far-right conspiracy theories and has shown support for former U.S. President Donald Trump. The Vatican hopes the penalty will prompt Vigano to repent and return to the Church.