Talk:Richard Williamson/sandbox

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Views of Bishop Williamson
Like the SSPX in general, Williamson opposes the changes brought about by the Second Vatican Council, which he sees as liberal, neo-modernist, and destroying the Catholic Church. Among the changes he decries are informality and simplicity in worship, preferring "beauty and majesty, beautiful music and vestments." Williamson considers the post Vatican II mainstream Catholic Church to be too tolerant of other denominations and religions, viewing Ecumenicalism an error. He has critiqued the theological understanding of both the Popes with whom the SSPX has been in conflict, including stating that Pope John Paul II had a "weak grasp of Catholicism".

Williamson upholds the SSPX view that they are not schismatic, but keep the "complete faith" and are the genuine Catholics, while the mainstream church is under "the power of Satan".

Williamson is viewed as being at the hardline end of the traditionalist spectrum. He opposes compromise with the Vatican, accusing it of deceit. He judges reconciliation between the Society and the current Vatican leadership to be impossible, noting that some SSPX members might refuse to follow the Society even if an agreement were reached.

Williamson is conservative in areas of gender roles and dress. He opposes the wearing of trousers or shorts by women, and has urged more manliness in men.

Williamson has expressed controversial views about Judaism and the Holocaust. He has endorsed The Protocols of the Elders of Zion, has denied the Holocaust,  and praised Holocaust denier Ernst Zundel. He states that Jews aim at world dominion, and that Jews and Freemasons, whom he also opposes, have contributed to the "changes and corruption" in the Catholic Church. He argues that Jews are the "enemies of Christ", and urges their conversion to Catholicism. Williamson denies that he is antisemitic, stating that he is following the New Testament, which includes harsh statements about the Jews, and noting that he also attacks other "enemies" of Christ such as Communists and Freemasons. Williamson supports alternative theories regarding the assassination of President Kennedy, and the collapse of the Twin Towers.