Svobodní zednáři v dokumentech katolické církve 1738‒1878

Abstract

The authors analytically and critically study papal statements on Free Masons during the period 1738‒1878. The period 1878‒1983 will be the subject of the following article. The Catholic Magisterium of that historical period did not fully distinguish between Free Masons, Illuminates, Carbonari and other organisations which often had different aims and methods of work. The problem is also the degree of connectedness between Free Masons and the French Revolution. There is no accusation of Satanism in any of the papal documents. There is another problem when, based on its experience with Italian and perhaps French Lodges, the Papacy pronounced global sentences and judgement over Free Masons throughout the world. For at least last fifty years, many of them have strongly distanced themselves from the Italian Masons of the mentioned period. The principal condemnations of indifferentism, syncretism, deism, and relativism are still valid. With regard to the differences of various Masonic groups, there is a question as to whether these characteristics can actually be fully applied to some of them. It is very irresponsible to transmit Papal statements on Free Masons, originating as reactions to the previous circumstances and needs of the Catholic Church, into the present without a critical study and understanding of contemporary connections. It is also contrary to the spirit of the Second Vatican Council and the following Papal documents.