BusinessWorld Weekender: Clash of the dogmas

BusinessWorld Weekender: Clash of the dogmas

"One tends to forget the rift between The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines and the Roman Catholic Church until pulled up short by the news that a prominent citizen, in good standing with civic society, is suddenly barred from Church rites.

Take the case of the late Quezon Governor Rafael Nantes, who because of his status as a freemason and Born Again Christian, was denied a Catholic burial last May; instead, he was buried at a private cemetery at the foot of Mount Banahaw in Lucban. No mass could be officiated in his presence (although his mortal remains could be blessed, and prayers for his soul were encouraged).

In contrast, all civic pomp was observed in the funeral cortege, accorded an honor guard from the military and police. Dignitaries paid their respects, including president-elect Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III, and recently retired Supreme Court Chief Justice Reynato Puno. (Incidentally, Mr. Puno is also a freemason, in fact a past Grand Master -- the highest elected legislative officer in a Masonic Lodge -- and may suffer a similar snub from the Church in the future. Currently serving his one-year-term as Grand Master is Gen. Avelino I. Razon, Jr.)"

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