Vatican bars Traditionalists from St. Peter’s

The Vatican Secretariat of State has prohibited traditionalist pilgrims from entering St. Peter's Basilica for their annual pilgrimage. Organizers of the event, which involves faithful traveling from various countries to venerate the relics of St. Peter, reported that the ban was communicated by the Secretariat.

The pilgrims celebrate the Mass according to the 1962 Missale Romanum, the edition promulgated by Pope John XXIII. Organizers noted that less than three months ago, Cardinal Mauro Gambetti had issued a letter authorizing a brief celebration at one of the side altars.

The restriction comes ahead of a scheduled procession to the Basilica. According to organizers, Vatican police will prevent the group from entering the building.