The Catholic Archdiocese of Accra has reaffirmed its long-standing stance against Freemasonry, emphasizing that Catholics cannot be part of Masonic associations. Apexnewsgh reports
In a statement titled “Catholics and Freemasonry,” signed by Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, the Church clarified that its teachings on the matter remain unchanged.
The statement addressed speculation about whether the Church had reconsidered its stance on Freemasonry, stating unequivocally, “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.”
The Church’s position on Freemasonry dates back to November 26, 1983, when the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith released the Declaration on Masonic Associations. This declaration emphasized that Masonic principles are irreconcilable with Catholic doctrine, and Catholic membership in Freemasonry remains forbidden.
The statement warned that Catholics who join Masonic associations commit a grave sin and are ineligible to receive Holy Communion. It highlighted specific areas where Freemasonry conflicts with Catholic teachings, including:
Equating Jesus Christ with other religious figures: Freemasonry often places Jesus Christ on the same level as Buddha, Krishna, and Confucius.
Addressing prayers to the “Great Architect of the Universe”: Freemasonry directs prayers to a vague deity rather than through Christ, which the Church views as a denial of Christ’s unique divinity and centrality in salvation.
The Archdiocese also condemned Freemasonry for promoting ideas that allegedly undermine Christianity, stating, “Freemasonry wants the destruction of Christianity, and no one can claim to be a proud Catholic and a Freemason”.
Below is the statement.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
