The Catholic Archdiocese of Accra has firmly reiterated its longstanding prohibition against members associating with Freemasonry, emphasizing that this position is unwavering and rooted in Catholic doctrine.
In a detailed statement titled “Catholics and Freemasonry,” signed by Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, the Church categorically clarified that membership in Masonic associations is irreconcilable with Catholic teachings and warned of the grave spiritual consequences for those who violate this directive.
The statement, which addresses recent inquiries about whether the Church had reconsidered its stance on Freemasonry, unequivocally declared, “The answer is simply ‘No.’ The Church has not changed its position on Freemasons. You can’t be a true Catholic and a Freemason at the same time.” This reaffirmation leaves no room for ambiguity, highlighting that the Catholic Church remains resolute in its commitment to preserving its doctrinal purity.
The Church’s position on Freemasonry is not a recent development. The statement traces this stance back to November 26, 1983, when the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith released the Declaration on Masonic Associations. This declaration explicitly stated, “Masonic principles are irreconcilable with the doctrine of the Church, and Catholic membership in Freemasonry remains forbidden.” The Archdiocese emphasized that this judgment has not been altered in the decades since its issuance.
The statement went further to outline the serious spiritual implications for Catholics who join Masonic associations. According to the Church, any Catholic who enrols in Freemasonry commits a grave sin and is therefore prohibited from receiving Holy Communion. The document reads, “The faithful who enrol in Masonic associations are in a state of grave sin and may not receive Holy Communion.” This strict stance underscores the severity with which the Church views the issue and serves as a stern warning to its members.
The Archdiocese also elaborated on the theological and doctrinal conflicts between Freemasonry and Catholicism. It pointed out that Freemasonry often equates Jesus Christ with other religious figures such as Buddha, Krishna, and Confucius, thereby undermining the unique divinity and centrality of Christ in salvation. Furthermore, Masonic practices include prayers to the “Great Architect of the Universe” rather than through Christ, a practice the Church considers a direct denial of Christ’s unparalleled role in the spiritual life of humanity.
In addition to these theological concerns, the statement criticized Freemasonry for promoting ideologies that the Church views as hostile to Christianity. It stated, “Freemasonry wants the destruction of Christianity, and no one can claim to be a proud Catholic and a Freemason.” This strong language reflects the Church’s deep-seated belief that Freemasonry’s principles are fundamentally at odds with the teachings of Christ and the mission of the Church.
The statement served as both a warning and a call to action for Catholics. It urged members of the Church to remain steadfast in their faith and to avoid any association with organizations or practices that conflict with Catholic teachings. The Archdiocese stressed the importance of spiritual vigilance and encouraged Catholics to prioritize their commitment to Christ and His Church above all else.
To reinforce its message, the Archdiocese provided a historical perspective, reminding members that the Catholic Church’s stance on Freemasonry has remained consistent for centuries. This consistency, the Church argues, is a testament to its dedication to safeguarding the integrity of its faith and guiding its members on the path of righteousness.
The statement concluded with a solemn call to Catholics to reflect on their faith and make choices that align with the teachings of the Church. It emphasized the spiritual dangers of compromising one’s beliefs and urged Catholics to seek guidance from their clergy if they had questions or concerns about the issue. The Archdiocese reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its members in their spiritual journey and ensuring that the teachings of the Church remain clear and accessible to all.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Accra’s latest pronouncement is a reminder of the Church’s unwavering dedication to its mission and its responsibility to guide its members in the truth. By addressing the issue of Freemasonry so directly, the Archdiocese seeks to eliminate any confusion and reaffirm its commitment to upholding the teachings of Christ. This declaration is not just a statement of policy but a reaffirmation of faith and a call to all Catholics to remain resolute in their commitment to the principles that define their identity as members of the Church.
The Church remains steadfast in its belief that adherence to Catholic doctrine is essential for the spiritual well-being of its members. By taking a strong stance against Freemasonry, the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra is sending a clear message that it will continue to prioritize the integrity of its teachings and the spiritual welfare of its congregation.
This reaffirmation of the Church’s position underscores its role as a spiritual authority and a guardian of the faith. As the Archdiocese continues to navigate the challenges of modern society, its commitment to preserving the core tenets of Catholicism serves as a guiding light for its members and a testament to the enduring power of faith.
In its closing remarks, the statement emphasized, “The Catholic Church has always maintained its firm stance against Freemasonry, as their principles are irreconcilable with Catholic teachings. Membership in Freemasonry is a grave sin, and Catholics who join are ineligible to receive Holy Communion. Freemasonry’s ideologies undermine the unique divinity and centrality of Christ, and no true Catholic can simultaneously be a Freemason. The Church calls on all faithful to remain resolute in their commitment to Christ and His teachings.”
This latest communication from the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra serves as a powerful reminder of the Church’s unwavering commitment to preserving its doctrinal integrity. It is a call to action for all Catholics to reflect on their faith, reaffirm their commitment to Christ, and avoid associations that conflict with the teachings of the Church. In doing so, the Archdiocese continues to fulfill its mission of guiding its members in the path of righteousness and upholding the timeless principles of the Catholic faith.
