The Grand Lodge Regular of Portugal/Grand Legal Lodge of Portugal, representing Regular Freemasonry, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, joining millions of Catholics worldwide in mourning.
In their statement, the Masonic body expressed condolences not just to Catholics but also to those who, regardless of their faith, opened their hearts to Pope Francis, recognizing him as a unique symbol of shared love.
Referencing the longstanding misunderstanding between the Catholic Church and Freemasonry from a programmatic and dogmatic viewpoint, the Masonic lodge emphasized that Pope Francis’s universal affirmation of inclusivity through the phrase ‘everyone, everyone, everyone’ marked a clear step towards dialogue and shared human endeavor for a better world.
The statement concluded with the hope that the energy and wisdom of Pope Francis would continue to inspire global solidarity and humanity.
The Sovereign Grand Chapter of the Knights Rosicrucians 1804 of Portugal — General Grand Chapter of the Modern or French Rite, an independent Masonic entity, also mourned Pope Francis’s death.
In their statement, the Rosicrucians noted that Pope Francis’s leadership, characterized by humility, compassion, and a deep commitment to the vulnerable, left an indelible legacy not only within the Catholic Church but globally, beyond religious creeds.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis inspired millions with his message of hope, mercy, and social justice, advocating for peace and union among all people worldwide, the group noted.
The Masonic lodge also remembered with gratitude Pope Francis’s tireless advocacy for integral ecology, human rights, and a more inclusive Church, close to its faithful and those suffering from hunger, poverty, and war.
His example of simplicity and service will remain in memory, and in this time of mourning, they extend sincere condolences to the Catholic Church, its followers, and all touched by his presence and words. They also expressed the hope that the next pontiff will wisely continue Jorge Mario Bergoglio’s legacy.
Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 after a 12-year pontificate marked by efforts against sexual abuse, the promotion of global peace amid numerous conflicts, and active environmental advocacy.
Born in Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936, Francis was the first Jesuit to lead the Catholic Church.
He was hospitalized for 38 days due to bilateral pneumonia and was released on March 23. His last public appearance was on Easter Sunday at the Vatican, a day before his death.
