Archbishop Carlo Maria Vigano, the former Papal Nuncio to the United States, has been excommunicated by the Vatican for schism due to his repeated attacks on Pope Francis and denial of papal authority and Vatican II. Vigano, a strong critic of Pope Francis' progressive policies, was found guilty of rejecting communion with the Church and the legitimacy of the Second Vatican Council. The excommunication, the most severe punishment in the Catholic Church, means he cannot partake in traditional ceremonies unless reconciled with church leaders. Despite his refusal to recognize the Vatican's authority and his schismatic acts, the possibility of lifting the excommunication remains with the Apostolic See.