A former Freemason who converted to Catholicism has welcomed a recent clarification issued by the Nordic Bishops’ Conference, reaffirming that membership in Freemasonry is incompatible with the Catholic faith. The statement seeks to address longstanding uncertainty among Catholics in the Nordic countries of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden regarding the Church’s position on the issue.
In a letter dated 29 June 2026, the Nordic bishops stated that there is “no exception” to the universal teaching of the Catholic Church concerning Freemasonry. The bishops emphasized that the Church’s position applies fully throughout the Nordic region and that Catholics should not belong to Masonic lodges. The clarification followed consultations with the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, which confirmed the Church’s longstanding stance.
The statement was welcomed by Pål Nes, Editor-in-Chief of EWTN Norway and a Catholic convert who previously belonged to a Masonic lodge. According to Nes, the bishops’ guidance provides much-needed clarity for both clergy and lay Catholics, particularly in Norway, where some had come to believe that Scandinavian forms of Freemasonry might be exempt from the Church’s prohibition.
Nes explained that confusion had persisted for many years due to the presence of Catholics associated with Freemasonry and differing interpretations of pastoral practice. He noted that the bishops’ clarification clearly affirms that Catholics cannot simultaneously maintain membership in Freemasonry and remain fully aligned with Church teaching.
The bishops stressed that their position should not be interpreted as a judgment on the goodwill or charitable works of individual Freemasons. Rather, they explained that the theological and philosophical principles underlying Freemasonry are incompatible with the beliefs and teachings of the Catholic Church.
Reflecting on his own journey, Nes described Freemasonry as more than a social or charitable organization, citing its rituals, symbolism, and spiritual elements. While he appreciated aspects of fraternity and tradition within Freemasonry, he ultimately found fulfillment in the Catholic faith and chose to leave the organization during his conversion process.
The bishops’ letter also included pastoral directives for Catholics currently involved in Freemasonry. Members were encouraged to end their association with Masonic lodges and refrain from receiving the sacraments until they had done so. Additionally, Catholic institutions and organizations were instructed not to enter into collaborative agreements with Masonic bodies or make use of their facilities.
Concluding their message, the Nordic bishops encouraged the faithful to remain committed to Christ and to support one another in authentic Christian discipleship. The clarification is expected to help provide greater consistency and understanding of Church teaching across the Nordic region.
Source: EWTN News.
