Transalpine Redemptorists
Catholicism·Scotland·Active (Sedevacantist orientation)·20th century
The Transalpine Redemptorists, now known as the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer (FSSR), originated in 1988 as a traditionalist faction of the Redemptorists. Initially reconciling with the Catholic Church in 2008 and formally recognized in 2012, they later renounced this reconciliation in 2026, declaring support for Sedevacantism and undergoing an episcopal consecration without Vatican approval, leading to excommunication. The institute was based in Scotland and New Zealand.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1988 as a traditionalist offshoot of the Redemptorists.
- ›Reconciled with the Catholic Church in 2008 and canonically erected in 2012.
- ›Established Golgotha Monastery on Papa Stronsay, Orkney Islands, Scotland.
- ›Maintained a presence in Christchurch, New Zealand, until July 2024.
- ›Renounced reconciliation with Rome and declared support for Sedevacantism in May 2026.
- ›Their founder, Father Michael Mary, was consecrated a bishop in July 2026, resulting in his excommunication.
Golgotha Monastery, the Catholic Monthly
the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer, Fssr, the Sons
Saint Alphonsus Liguori, Father Michael Mary, Bishop Pierre Roy, Hugh Gilbert
- Formation As A Traditionalist Offshoot
- Reconciliation With the Catholic Church
- Canonical Recognition As A Clerical Institute
- Renunciation of Reconciliation With Rome and Declaration of Sedevacantism
- Episcopal Consecration of Father Michael Mary
About Transalpine Redemptorists
The Transalpine Redemptorists, officially known as the Congregation of the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer (Latin: Filii Sanctissimi Redemptoris; FSSR), emerged in 1988 as a traditionalist faction stemming from the Redemptorist order. Their monastic rule is based on that of Saint Alphonsus Liguori. The community initially established a presence at the Monastery of the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary in Kent, England, before relocating to France. In 1999, they purchased the island of Papa Stronsay in the Orkney Islands, Scotland, where they established Golgotha Monastery.
Reconciliation and Separation
In June 2008, the institute sought reconciliation with the Catholic Church, which was accepted by Pope Benedict XVI. This led to a period of canonical good standing, and in August 2012, they were formally recognized as a clerical institute of diocesan right by the Bishop of Aberdeen. During this period, they also established a second monastery in Christchurch, New Zealand, and later a small community in Kakahu. However, in May 2026, the Sons renounced their reconciliation with Rome, publicly declaring their support for Sedevacantism and rejecting the Second Vatican Council. This divergence culminated on July 25, 2026, when their founder and rector, Father Michael Mary, was consecrated as a bishop by a sedevacantist bishop, a move that resulted in his excommunication by the Bishop of Aberdeen.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When were the Transalpine Redemptorists founded?
The Transalpine Redemptorists were formed in 1988. They originated as a traditionalist offshoot of the Redemptorist order.
What is the current status of the Transalpine Redemptorists?
In May 2026, the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer renounced their reconciliation with Rome and publicly declared support for Sedevacantism. Their founder was subsequently excommunicated by the Bishop of Aberdeen.
Where were the Transalpine Redemptorists based?
They were originally based in Kent, England, then moved to France, before purchasing the island of Papa Stronsay in Scotland in 1999. They also established a monastery in Christchurch, New Zealand.
What is the significance of the name change?
The community changed their official name to The Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer (FSSR) after reconciling with the Catholic Church. This was done to differentiate themselves from the main Redemptorist order.
What led to their excommunication?
The leader of the community, Father Michael Mary, was consecrated a bishop in July 2026 by a sedevacantist bishop without express Vatican approval. This act led to his excommunication by the Bishop of Aberdeen.
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