6.18. I love Christ and His Church, and fear leading my family into error. How can I know sedevacantism is truly Catholic and not a schism? I don’t want to be misled. Where do I begin?
First, thank you for your sincerity. The fact that you care this deeply about Christ, His Church, your family, and your salvation means grace is already at work in your soul. These questions are not signs of rebellion or doubt—they are signs of spiritual maturity and a conscience awakened by truth.
Let’s approach this calmly and step by step.
1. Discomfort Is a Sign You’re Taking Truth Seriously.
When you’re told that much of what you’ve trusted—Mass, hierarchy, teachings—has been corrupted, it’s natural to feel shocked, even betrayed. You’re not alone. Many of us felt the same. That pain is not proof something is wrong—it’s the natural effect of your soul resisting change.
But truth often hurts before it heals. Think of St. Paul, blinded on the road to Damascus. His love for God was sincere, but he had to be corrected—even painfully—so that he could truly serve Christ.
2. You Are Not Schismatic for Seeking the Truth.
Schism means rejecting legitimate authority. But if the post-Vatican II popes are not true popes—because they publicly teach heresy—then refusing obedience to them is not schism, but fidelity. The Church has always taught that public heretics cannot hold office (Canon 188.4, 1917 Code; St. Robert Bellarmine).
You are not leaving the Church—you are seeking the Church where She truly is: in the unchanging teachings, sacraments, and liturgy of Catholic Tradition. That’s not separation—it’s reunion.
3. Where to Begin? Start with What the Church Always Taught.
Don't begin by studying sedevacantism. Begin by reading what the Church taught before Vatican II:
The Catechism of the Council of Trent
Pope St. Pius X's Catechism
Encyclicals like Quanta Cura, Pascendi, Mortalium Animos, Quas Primas, Mediator Dei
The documents of the Council of Trent and Vatican I
Then compare those with the teachings of Vatican II (e.g., Dignitatis Humanae, Nostra Aetate, Unitatis Redintegratio) and see if they match. They don’t—and that’s your first solid indication that something is terribly wrong.
4. Ask God for Clarity—And Be Patient.
Pray the Rosary daily. Ask the Immaculate Heart of Mary to guide you. She will.
You don’t need to make a decision today. Study, pray, observe. Find a good traditional priest if possible and ask questions. God is not trying to trap you—He is drawing you, gently but firmly, toward the fullness of truth.
5. You Will Not Lose Your Faith by Seeking the Truth.
The devil wants you to fear that, but God never punishes sincere inquiry. You love Christ—that is your anchor. And He promised:
“Everyone that seeketh, findeth; and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened.”
Yes, the road may be lonely. Yes, it may mean sacrifice. But Christ doesn’t ask us to carry any cross He hasn’t carried first. If you put Him first—even above social comfort, reputation, or routine—He will guide you home.
6. You Will Not Be Leading Your Family Astray—You’ll Be Leading Them Safely to the Ark.
If you come to believe sedevacantism is true, then it would be wrong to ignore it. Your family’s eternal salvation matters more than comfort. Leading them to the traditional Catholic faith is the most loving thing you could ever do.
Start slowly. Be patient with them. Let your joy, clarity, and peace speak louder than argument. Grace moves hearts in God’s time.
In Summary:
You are not wrong to question. You are showing courage.
Begin with Tradition, not the controversy.
Don’t rush—pray, read, observe.
God rewards those who seek Him with humility.
You’re not alone. Many faithful Catholics have walked this path before you—and stayed faithful to Christ.
“Stand ye on the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, which is the good way, and walk ye in it: and you shall find refreshment for your souls.”