What the Church really thinks about Masons!

Thanks to the great Fr. Z, of What does the prayer really say?, for reminding us all of this.

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CONGREGATION FOR THE DOCTRINE OF THE FAITH

DECLARATION ON MASONIC ASSOCIATIONS

It has been asked whether there has been any change in the Church’s decision in regard to Masonic associations since the new Code of Canon Law does not mention them expressly, unlike the previous Code.

This Sacred Congregation is in a position to reply that this circumstance in due to an editorial criterion which was followed also in the case of other associations likewise unmentioned inasmuch as they are contained in wider categories.

Therefore the Church’s negative judgment in regard to Masonic association 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 enrol in Masonic associations are in a state of grave sin and may not receive Holy Communion. [This is my emphasis.  And might I add, the Church as well.]

It is not within the competence of local ecclesiastical authorities to give a judgment on the nature of Masonic associations which would imply a derogation from what has been decided above, and this in line with the Declaration of this Sacred Congregation issued on 17 February 1981 (cf. AAS 73 1981 pp. 240-241; English language edition of L’Osservatore Romano, 9 March 1981). [This means local bishops are in no position which lodge is not included in this prohibition.  Therefore, the Sacred Congregation says, this declaration is enough so the local episcopal conferences should just stick to what the Universal magisterium says.  To put it bluntly, shut up and just obey!]

In an audience granted to the undersigned Cardinal Prefect, the Supreme Pontiff John Paul II approved and ordered the publication of this Declaration which had been decided in an ordinary meeting of this Sacred Congregation. 

Rome, from the Office of the Sacred Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, 26 November 1983.

Joseph Card. RATZINGER
Prefect

  

+ Fr. Jerome Hamer, O.P.
Titular Archbishop of Lorium
Secretary

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Source: Vatican website

Hmmm...the name of the Prefect looks familiar eh?

So to all those who call themselves Catholic yet persists on joining Masonic lodges, there is a better alternative for you rather than put the eternal salvation of your souls at risk.  If you are looking for an a fraternity that serves others, here is the alternative!