Less than a week after the Vatican declared the Society of St. Pius X in schism, a church outside Charlotte finalized the purchase of 26 acres where they hope to build the largest project in the community’s history.
Closing on the property days after the Vatican’s declaration wasn’t an act of defiance, they said. It was an expression of confidence. As the society began formally challenging its excommunication, members of St. Anthony’s in Mount Holly say the initial disappointment quickly gave way to optimism. They’re focused on preserving what they believe will be a thriving Catholic community for future generations.
“We absolutely went through with the purchase of this property,” longtime parishioner Jim De Piante said. “That’s just as big a statement of hope as you could possibly make.”…