The Catholic Archdiocese of Accra has reaffirmed that true Catholics cannot join Freemasonry, emphasizing that it is incompatible with Church doctrine and religious values.
The Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, stated clearly in a statement that the Catholic Church has not changed its stance on Freemasons.
“My dearly beloved, in recent times, there has been a surge in discussions about whether the Catholic Church has altered her stance on her teachings regarding Freemasons. The response is unequivocally “No.” The Church has maintained its stance regarding Freemasons. “You cannot simultaneously be a genuine Catholic and a Freemason,” emphasized parts of the statement.
The statement expressed unique concerns for young Catholics, emphasizing the importance of understanding the significance of this doctrine and following the Church’s guidance, especially at a time when some are advocating for Freemasonry as a worthwhile association to join.
The Archdiocese emphasizes that the Church’s teachings play a crucial role in shaping the morals of future generations, with Proverbs 22:6 serving as an important reminder of this principle.
“A significant number of our Catholics, particularly young adults, should be aware of this and look to the Church for guidance, especially now when some individuals are promoting Freemasonry as a worthwhile association.” As a church, the teachings of Proverbs 22:6 hold significant value in shaping our younger generation: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
Referencing Matthew 6:24, he emphasized that “no one can serve two masters” and warned that Freemasonry opposes the principles of Christianity and the Catholic Church.
The archbishop called on Catholics to maintain their faith and refrain from any involvement with Freemasonry in his concluding remarks, emphasizing the Church’s steadfast position.
