I’m a newly made Mason and I’m also considering joining the Ancient Order of Hibernians, an Irish Catholic fraternal order. Does the Catholic church have any against Freemasonry? Would being a dual member of these societies be a problem?

H.A

H.Abiff - 04 July 2012 04:32 PM

I’m a newly made Mason and I’m also considering joining the Ancient Order of Hibernians, an Irish Catholic fraternal order. Does the Catholic church have any against Freemasonry? Would being a dual member of these societies be a problem?

H.A

There are no restrictions from the Freemasonry side that I’m aware of. The Roman Catholic Church does have issues with us, though. There are many Catholic Masons and they realize there is no conflict. Whatever decision you make should be made prayerfully and carefully.

I believe the official position of the catholic church is that Catholics who are Freemasons are in a state of sin.  Despite reason and logic, the catholic church still believes that Freemasonry is a religion.

Those of us who are Catholic and Freemasons know this is not true.  Still, you will most likely meet with some issues if you were to disclose your membership.