The Noble Order of Knights and Ladies of Marshall have issued a statement expressing their strong support to the Catholic Church’s position on the incompatibility of Freemasonry with the Catholic Faith.
This declaration comes as a result of recent discussions on social media and statements from various Catholic Episcopal conferences and individual Catholic Bishops and Archbishops concerning the relationship between Catholicism and Freemasonry.
The statement, dated February 3, 2025 and signed by Sir Kt. Bro. Richard Ayih-Akakpo the Supreme Knight of the Knights of Marshall and MRL Sis. Patricia Dunenye the Grand Lady of the Ladies of Marshall highlighted the “condemnation of Freemasonry “by numerous popes since its inception.
They referenced the Declaration on Masonic Associations issued by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith in 1983 which was overseen by Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger and other recent documents which reiterates the longstanding Church teaching against Freemasonry.
“Further, as recently as 13th November, 2023, a new statement was issued by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith following a meeting on Freemasonry with a bishop from the Philippines. The document that was released following that meeting, reiterates the same position: one cannot be a Catholic and a Freemason at the same time.”
Furthermore, they have pledged to abide by the teachings of the church and also to educate their members on the Church’s doctrines regarding Freemasonry.
“ We also pledge to continue with an ongoing catechesis and education of our members on the Church’s position.”
Additionally, they have pledged to “expel from the Noble Order any member who flouts this position and report that person to the appropriate ecclesiastical authorities for guidance, counselling, penance and sanctions (if necessary). ”
The statement also addressed recent media portrayals that have inaccurately equated the Noble Order with Freemasonry, describing such representations as “unfortunate, mischievous, and a misrepresentation” of the vision and mission of their Noble Order.
The Knights and Ladies of Marshall operate across several countries in West Africa including Togo, Benin, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Burkina Faso and the United Kingdom, emphasizing their dedication to upholding Catholic values and contributing positively to society through noble works of friendship, education, relief and disaster management, service to mankind and charity.
By: Veronica Sena Amenya//Newswatchgh.com.
