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Thursday, February 20, 2025

National Youth Chaplain Cautions Young People Against Freemasonry

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In light of the recent conversations around Freemasonry and its compatibility with the Catholic Church, the National Youth Chaplain in Ghana, Rev. Fr. James Bour-Mensah has cautioned the youth in the Church about the dangers of joining Freemasonry.

In a release dated January 29, 2025, Rev. Fr. James Bour-Mensah  cited fundamental conflicts between Masonic principles and Catholic teachings emphasizing that involvement with Freemasonry can lead to serious spiritual consequences, including exclusion from the sacraments.

Referencing the Canon 1374 of the Code of Canon Law in the statement , individuals who join associations that plot against the Church may face penalties.

“The Catholic Church has repeatedly and unequivocally condemned Freemasonry. The Code of Canon Law (Canon 1374) states: “A person who joins an association which plots against the Church is to be punished with a just penalty; one who promotes or takes office in such an association is to be punished with an interdict”, the statement read.

This stance has been reinforced by historical papal declarations, including Pope Clement XII’s encyclical In Eminenti in 1738 and Pope Leo XIII’s Humanum Genus in 1884, both of which condemned Freemasonry for its anti-Catholic ideology.

The statement reiterated that Catholics who associate themselves with Masonic organizations are in a state of sin and prohibited from receiving Holy Communion.

“The Catholic Church has consistently warned against Freemasonry, making it clear that membership in Masonic organizations is gravely sinful and places one outside full communion with the Church.”

Fr.  Bour-Mensah also advised the youth that though they may face challenges, they should not be lured by social pressures in order to achieve success.

“Catholic youth face many challenges today, from secular influences to peer pressure and false ideologies. In seeking success, young Catholics might be lured into Freemasonry under the pretense of networking, business opportunities, or social prestige. However, such short-term gains come at the cost of one’s eternal soul. Reasons to reject Freemasonry”.

Instead, he encouraged the youth to join societies in the church which will help them “find their true purpose in Christ.”

“The Church already provides a true sense of fraternity, service, and enlightenment through Church societies such as: The Knights and Ladies of Marshall (The Junior Marshallans) The Catholic Youth Organization (CYO), The Legion of Mary, The Knights and Ladies Auxiliary of St. John International (The Junior Cadet) Catholic Charismatic Renewal,” he stated.

In addition, he urged the youth to remain grounded in their faith, avoiding organizations that could lead them away from their spiritual commitments.

“Catholic youth must remain vigilant and not be deceived by worldly organizations and fraternal societies that appear beneficial but contradict Christian faith,” he added.

By Veronica Sena Amenya//Newswatchgh.com

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