“You Can’t Be a True Catholic and a Freemason at the Same Time” – Archbishop Kwofie

The Catholic Archdiocese of Accra has reiterated the Church’s long-standing position on Freemasonry, reaffirming that Catholics cannot be Freemasons and remain true to their faith.

In a statement issued by Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, the Church emphasized that its stance on Freemasonry has not changed and that membership in Masonic organizations is incompatible with Catholic doctrine.

“You can’t be a true Catholic and a Freemason at the same time,” the Archbishop stated, addressing concerns about whether the Church had revised its position on Freemasonry.

Church Doctrine on Freemasonry

The Archbishop referenced the 1983 document, Declaration on Masonic Associations, issued by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, which explicitly forbids Catholic membership in Freemasonry. Quoting from the document, Archbishop Kwofie said, “The Church’s negative judgment in regard to Masonic associations remains unchanged since their principles have always been considered irreconcilable with the doctrine of the Church, and therefore membership in them remains forbidden. The faithful who enroll in Masonic associations are in a state of grave sin and may not receive Holy Communion.”

The Archbishop also outlined key reasons for this stance, highlighting the significant contradictions between Masonic principles and Catholic teachings. He explained, “Masonic principles denigrate Jesus Christ, our Lord and God, placing Him on the same level as Buddha, Krishna, Confucius, and others. Prayers through Christ are omitted and instead addressed to the ‘Great Architect of the Universe.’”

Catholic Faith vs. Freemasonry

Further criticizing Freemasonry, Archbishop Kwofie condemned its approach to religious texts, which places the Bible on the same level as other religious writings. He described this as “absolutely preposterous” and quoted Matthew 6:24 to underline the incompatibility: “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.”

The Archbishop stressed that Catholics who become Freemasons are in grave sin and, as a result, are barred from receiving Holy Communion.

Call for Adherence

Archbishop Kwofie also urged Catholics, particularly young adults, to seek guidance from the Church and follow its teachings. “Many of our Catholics, especially the young adults, need to know this and follow the Church for direction, especially at a time when some people are presenting Freemasonry as an association worth being affiliated with,” he said.

In conclusion, the Archbishop encouraged Catholics to remain steadfast in their faith and rely on the Holy Spirit for enlightenment. “Let us kindly take note of this, and may the Holy Spirit continue to enlighten us to follow His path,” he added.