The Lefebvrian's superior, Bernard Fellay met with 27 fellow members of the Society of St. Pius X.
The group gathered just a few feet away from Rome to decide if it wants to accept the Vatican's offer and reconcile with the Catholic Church.
They analyzed if they will accept the key doctrinal points that were laid out by Cardinal Levada in mid September.
This means signing a “Doctrinal Preamble,” which is based on criteria and points of interpretation of the Catholic doctrine, which Lefebvrians don't always seem to agree with.
After this meeting with the Vatican, the Lefebvrians highlighted their deep will to conserve the integrity of the faith and remain faithful to their founder Lefebvre.
The group also said it will give its response within a reasonable time frame.
The so called preamble would allow Lefebvrians to discuss the terms or approach of the Vatican II and the Magisterium, but not its contents.
They would also have to agree to express their opinions with respect for those who disagree.
If they accept, Rome will seek a canon law formula to welcome them back. Cardinal Levada offered them the option of becoming a “Personal Prelature.”
This is a very flexible formula that accommodates groups that are both secular and hierarchical.
It's not based on geography but rather on the needs of its members.
So far the Lefebvrians have been somewhat hesitant in accepting the Vatican's proposal.
At times, they've also expressed hostility toward Rome.
A French province has called for one thousand Masses to prepare for the coming gathering the pope will have with other religious leaders in Assisi on October 27th.