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In a response to a request from a concerned Filipino bishop regarding the increasing number of Catholics joining the Masons, Pope Benedict XVI approved the Dicastério for the Doctrine of Faith to address the issue. It was confirmed that it is still forbidden for Catholics to join the Masons, as stated in a response dated November 13, 2023. The response, signed by Mayor Victor Fernandéz and blessed by Pope Francis, was a result of the outreach from Dom Julito Cortes, the bishop of Dumaguete in the Philippines. Bishop Cortes expressed his concern about the growing number of faithful in his diocese who were joining the Masonic fraternity, seeking guidance on how to handle the situation both pastorally and theologically.
In response to the bishop’s concerns, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of Faith decided to involve the Episcopal Conference of the Philippines, stating that a coordinated strategy among the bishops was necessary. This strategy would encompass both theological and pastoral aspects.
Regarding matters of faith and doctrine, the first rule is clear: “a faithful person may not actively affiliate with the Masonic Lodge.” This statement, which aligns with the Declaration of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith from 1983 and the Directives published by the Conference of Bishops in 2003, remains unchanged. The note further clarifies that those who formally and consciously register and embrace the principles of matriarchal societies fall within the scope of the aforementioned Declaration. This rule also applies to clergy members who join the Masons.
The second strategy proposed by the dicastério focuses on a pastoral approach. It recommends that all Filipino parish priests conduct catechesis sessions to educate the faithful on the incompatibility of Catholic faith and Masonic rituals. Additionally, the note suggests that the bishops prayerfully consider issuing a public statement on the matter.
It is worth noting that the November 1983 Declaration was published on the eve of the new Code of Canon Law taking effect. This new Code replaced the 1917 Code, and one of its significant changes was the absence of explicit condemnation of Freemasonry and excommunication for its affiliates, as present in the old text. However, the Declaration, signed by then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger and the secretary of the Congregation, Jérôme Hamer, and approved by John Paul II, reiterated that Catholics affiliated with Masonic lodges are “in a state of grave sin.”
Hence, the Vatican’s stance remains firm on forbidding Catholics from joining the Masons. This prohibition is seen as a reflection of the theological beliefs and principles of the Catholic faith. The church emphasizes the importance of remaining faithful to its teachings and avoiding affiliations that contradict its doctrines.
The response from the Dicastério for the Doctrine of Faith and the involvement of the Episcopal Conference of the Philippines underline the seriousness with which the Catholic Church regards this issue. It is a duty of the bishops and priests to educate and guide the faithful, ensuring that they understand the reasons behind the incompatibility of Catholic faith and Masonic rituals. Through a coordinated strategy and prayerful discernment, the church seeks to address the concerns raised by Bishop Cortes and provide the necessary pastoral care and theological guidance to its flock.
