Is Freemasonry at odds with the Catholic Church?
Yes, Freemasonry is generally considered to be at odds with the Catholic Church. This conflict primarily arises from the Church's longstanding position against Freemasonry, which has been articulated through various papal bulls since 1738. These documents have declared that membership in Masonic organizations is incompatible with Catholicism, leading to the excommunication of Catholics who join such societies. For instance, the 1917 Code of Canon Law explicitly stated that any Catholic associated with Freemasonry would be excommunicated and denied any benefits from the Church.
Moreover, the Masonic fraternity has historically expressed a degree of animosity towards the Catholic Church, viewing its hierarchical structure and claims of authority as contrary to Masonic principles of liberty and individual conscience. As noted in one source, "Masonry opposes the Catholic hierarchy. We defend American institutions from Papal encroachment".