Conversations on the Crisis

Conversations with John Lane - Episode 1: Introduction to the History of the Crisis

Conversations on the Crisis

Show Notes

What do so-called neo-conservatives and "trads" have in common with sedevacantists? You may be surprised. Louie Verrecchio interviews SSPX attendee John Lane in a series of interviews looking deeper at the crisis. In this episode they cover; a history of the crisis in the Catholic Church; the reaction of traditionalists to the changes in the Church; the origins of the Society of St. Pius X; the schism of Paul VI; obedience and the rule of law; the administrative tyranny of the conciliar sect. The differing effects of the crisis on the Church in the East and West, and; the impossibility of obeying heretics. From the Patria Podcast, originally published February 2020. Used with permission. Note: At circa 31 minutes there is a gap in the original audio. During this time John Lane is referring to Bp Antônio de Castro Mayer (20 June 1904 – 25 April 1991) who was Bishop of Campos, Brazil between 1949 and 1981. He was the only Roman Rite bishop to not introduce the Paul VI Novus Ordo Missae into his diocese.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit greatcatholicpodcasts.substack.com

More from Conversations on the Crisis

Aug 21, 2026

John joins Louie to tackle viewer questions focusing on the No Una Cum position challenging the claim that naming a false pope in the canon renders a Mass non‑Catholic or that Catholics holding the sedevacantist position are forbidden to attend such masses. Drawing on theology, canon law, and historical cases—from St. Vincent Ferrer to the English Reformation—Lane argues the issue is a modern novelty, not a traditional teaching. He explains why presence at such a Mass does not imply consent to error, why the faithful are not required to resolve papal legitimacy in confusing times. He also discusses his position in relation to groups like the SSPX, FSSP and the broader crisis in the Church. As Lane puts it, “It’s a non‑issue… and it can only be built up to appear to be an issue by vague rhetoric" and emotional arguments that cloud right reason.

Feb 13, 2026

Louie concludes the series with the second of a two-part discussion of Vatican II's Pastoral constitution on the church in the modern world, Gaudium et Spes and contrasts it with Catholic teaching alongside host Kevin Davis. Follow along with the original text available at: https://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_const_19651207_gaudium-et-spes_en.html You can find Louie at akacatholic.com

Feb 12, 2026

Louie begins a two-part discussion of Vatican II's Pastoral constitution on the church in the modern world, Gaudium et Spes and contrasts it with Catholic teaching alongside host Kevin Davis. Follow along with the original text available at: https://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_const_19651207_gaudium-et-spes_en.html Francis I's speech to economists mentioned by Louie can be found at: https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/speeches/2014/july/documents/papa-francesco_20140712_seminario-economia.html

Feb 11, 2026

Louie concludes a two-part discussion of Vatican II's declaration on religious freedom Dignitatis Humanae and contrasts it with Catholic teaching alongside host Kevin Davis. From the Catholic Family Podcast. Follow along with Louie by reading the document available here: https://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_decl_19651207_dignitatis-humanae_en.html You can find Louie at akacatholic.com

Feb 10, 2026

Louie begins a two-part discussion of Vatican II's declaration on religious freedom Dignitatis Humanae and contrasts it with Catholic teaching alongside host Kevin Davis. You can find the text being discussed here: https://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_decl_19651207_dignitatis-humanae_en.html You can find Louie at akacatholic.com

See all episodes →