“You can’t be a true Catholic and a Freemason” – Archbishop of Accra declares

In the wake of growing discussions about the compatibility of Freemasonry and Catholicism, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie CSSp., has reiterated the Catholic Church’s stance on the matter. Addressing the faithful this afternoon, the Archbishop declared, “You can’t be a true Catholic and a Freemason at the same time.”

This firm position follows public revelations by prominent figures such as former President John Agyekum Kufuor and NDC National Youth Organizer George Opare Addo, both of whom have openly identified as Freemasons. Their admissions have sparked national discourse, with some questioning whether the Church’s teaching on Freemasonry has evolved.

Archbishop Kwofie dispelled such notions, stating unequivocally that the Church’s position remains unchanged. Citing the 1983 “Declaration on Masonic Associations” by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, he explained, “Masonic principles are irreconcilable with the doctrine of the Church, and that Catholic membership in Freemasonry remains forbidden. Catholics who are Freemasons are, therefore, in grave sin and may not receive Holy Communion.”

The Archbishop pointed to key contradictions between the teachings of the Catholic Church and Masonic practices. He noted that Freemasonry denigrates Jesus Christ by equating Him with other religious figures such as Buddha and Krishna. “Prayers through Christ are omitted and addressed to the Great Architect of the Universe,” he added.

As Ghana engages in heated discussions about Freemasonry’s role in society, Archbishop Kwofie warned against the organization’s alleged objective to undermine Christianity. “Freemasonry wants the destruction of Christianity, and no one can claim to be a proud Catholic and a Freemason,” he said.

The Archbishop’s comments come at a critical time when public figures, including Afenyo Markin, a notable lawmaker, have been linked to Freemasonry. He urged young Catholics to resist the allure of such associations, invoking Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

Archbishop Kwofie emphasized the importance of maintaining doctrinal integrity. “Let us kindly take note of this, and may the Holy Spirit continue to enlighten us to follow His path,” he urged. The statement reaffirms the Church’s commitment to guiding its members amidst rising concerns about conflicting allegiances.

The debate over Freemasonry in Ghana continues to draw widespread attention, with the Catholic Church’s position providing a clear directive for its faithful.