[PalmettoMason]

Sure. It is my understanding from my reading on the internet, and my conversations with RC family and friends that the Church forbids membership in Freemasonry. In fact, I was told that the Knights of Columbus was formed as an alternative to Freemasonry for Catholics (I don't know if this is true, I have never read up on KofC).

I love the RC Mass, and attend now and then, without partaking of the Sacrament, of course.

I am sure it will be suggested by some that I simply renounce my membership in the Lodge, and join the Church. It's not that simple. I honestly cannot understand the Church's position on the issue, and even if I did renounce it, I would always be a Freemason in my heart, which would mean that I would be living a lie.

Anyway, that's about it. I appreciate your asking, and would be interested in your thoughts.

[littlehouse36]

Hi -- maybe this will help with Catholic teaching on Freemasons:

 

http://www.ewtn.com/library/ANSWERS/CAMASON1.htm

 

I hope you will continue to visit St. Mary's.  It is a special place, and if nothing else you will get a five-star homily from Fr. Newman. 

 

There was a time in my life when I realized that non-Catholics, such as yourself, showed more respect for Church teaching than I did.  That is when I took a good look at my soul and faith and decided to embrace Catholicism wholly. 

 

 

[Desdemona]

It is my understanding from my reading on the internet, and my conversations with RC family and friends that the Church forbids membership in Freemasonry. In fact, I was told that the Knights of Columbus was formed as an alternative to Freemasonry for Catholics (I don't know if this is true, I have never read up on KofC).

The formation of the KC had more to do with a consortium to be able to get life insurance. Catholics couldn't get life insurance for a time.

To understand why the church forbids freemasonry, the best source is a papal encyclical by Pope Leo XIII (IMO, one of the best and brightest of the last 200 years) called "Humanun Genus" published in 1884. There are other encyclicals by other popes that explain why, but Leo XIII always lays things out well. My HTML cheat sheet is at work, but you can find the encyclical at http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/leo_xiii/encyclicals/documents/hf_l-xiii_enc_18840420_humanum-genus_en.html

My prayers for you in your spiritual search.

[visualops]

Don’t rely on the well-meaning but possibly incorrect opinions of friends and family. Talk to the priest at the church where you attend services. After Mass, (presumably he greets people as they exit the narthax) tell him you have some questions and would like to discuss with him some personal issues regarding a path to joining the Church. Depending on how busy he is, he may refer you to the Deacon first.