Freemasonry and a 1974 DCF Statement

[slinky1882]

I was doing some research on the Catholic Church’s position on Freemasonry and I came across this in the “Modern Catholic Dictionary” (John A. Hardon, S.J., pg. 221):

“Since not all masonic lodges are professedly anti-Catholic, a decision of the Sacred Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith mitigated the severity of the existing law, stating: ‘In considering particular cases, it must be remembered that penal law is always subject to strict interpretation. Therefore one may safely teach and apply the opinion of those authors who hold that Canon 2335 refers only to those Catholics who join associations which plot against the Church (Sept. 18, 1974)’ In special cases, then, a lay Catholic may belong to a masonic lodge, but the clergy, religious and members of secular institutes may not belong.”

I am confused as I thought Catholics were not allowed to join the masons under any circumstances. Either way, what would be the authentic interpreation of the above quote from the DCF??? Thanks and God Bless.

 

[jordan]

Here’s a link to a more recent document (1983…subsequent to the updated Code of Cannon Law) from the SCDF that should clear up any confusion. ewtn.com/library/CURIA/CDFMASN2.HTM

“…the Church’s negative judgment in regard to Masonic associations remains unchanged since their principles have always been considered irreconcilable with the doctrine of the Church and, therefore, membership in them remains forbidden.”

I believe that, considering Pope Benedict XVI was, at the time this document was released, Prefect of the SCDF, we need no further interpretation of the quote you provided. The Church’s teaching is clear.

 

[slinky1882]

Thank you for your post and the link. The statement is very clear, and I still am confused how some justify membership. Thanks and God Bless.