A New Biography of Archbishop Lefebvre by Bp. Tissier de Mallerais
If you’re looking to learn more about Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, who he was, why he took action and the enormous effect his actions have had—this is the book you need to read.
For nearly two thousand years the Catholic Mass was said in the same manner everywhere in the western world, regardless of nation or nationality. But in the 20th century that ceased to be true. Profound changes that had begun far earlier culminated in the Second Vatican Council and the creation of a new theology, the effect of which was a new form of worship. Up until this point in history, few laymen had ever heard the story of Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre. Fewer still knew that he was a missionary in the fields of Africa, Bishop of Dakar, Apostolic Delegate to West Africa, or even that he was appointed as the head of the international priestly order of the Holy Ghost Fathers. How he became known as a conservative leader and a voice for all those looking to oppose modernism was known by fewer still.
This is that story.
The Rest of the Story is an essential book for the Catholic readers of today as it provides a brief historical and liturgical-political backdrop for some of the most pivotal events of the 20th century—the effects of which we, as Catholics, are still experiencing today. While those who have read the near-700-page biography by the same author will not find anything new in this book, they will find the topics covered here much more accessible in this shortened format.
I am convinced that the Archbishop will occupy a major position in the history of post-conciliar Catholicism. The reason I believe this is that he had the courage and foresight to take the practical steps to preserve the traditional Faith.
- Michael Davies, 1979
About the Author
Bernard Tissier de Mallerais was born in Sallanches, Haute-Savoie, France. After obtaining a university degree in biology, he entered the International Seminary of Saint Pius X at Fribourg in October 1969. On June 29, 1975 he was ordained priest by Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre at the Seminary Saint Pius X, at Econe (Switzerland). He served first as a professor, then as vice-rector, and finally as rector of the seminary at Econe. Then he was appointed Secretary General of the SSPX.
In 1988, he was consacrated a bishop by Archbishop Lefebvre in Econe. He is an auxiliary Bishop for the Society Saint Pius X, giving the sacrement of confirmation and confering the Sacred Orders. He resides at Econe.
