Jolly Ann Mae M.

Virtudazo
“Did Jose Rizal actually make a decision to renounce his Masonic affiliation and return to the Catholic
Church? YES.

Introduction: Jose Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, was a complex and multifaceted individual
who had a significant impact on the country’s history. One aspect of his life that has been the subject of
much debate and controversy is his relationship with the Catholic Church and his alleged renunciation of
his Masonic affiliation.

Body: There is substantial evidence that Rizal did, in fact, make the decision to renounce his Masonic
affiliation and return to the Catholic Church towards the end of his life.

Firstly, Rizal’s own writings and correspondence indicate that he had been grappling with his religious
beliefs and affiliations for some time. In a letter to his family dated December 15, 1896, just a few days
before his execution, Rizal wrote: “I have returned to the religion of my ancestors. I believe in God, I
believe in Christ, I believe in the Holy Spirit, I believe in the Catholic Church.” This statement clearly
suggests that Rizal had made the decision to return to the Catholic faith.

Furthermore, the testimony of eyewitnesses and historical accounts corroborate Rizal’s decision.
According to the account of Father Vicente Balaguer, the Jesuit priest who administered the last rites to
Rizal, the national hero “confessed and received Holy Communion” before his execution, indicating that
he had reconciled with the Catholic Church.

Additionally, Rizal’s sister, Narcisa Rizal, also testified that her brother had renounced his Masonic
affiliation and returned to the Catholic faith. In her memoirs, she wrote: “My brother Jose, before his
death, renounced Freemasonry and returned to the Catholic religion.”

Conclusion: In conclusion, the available historical evidence strongly suggests that Jose Rizal did, in fact,
make the decision to renounce his Masonic affiliation and return to the Catholic Church towards the end
of his life. This decision was reflected in his own writings, the testimony of eyewitnesses, and the
accounts of his family members. While the reasons behind this decision may be complex and
multifaceted, the historical record clearly indicates that Rizal ultimately reconciled with the Catholic faith
before his execution.

References:
Rizal, Jose. “Letter to his Family.” December 15, 1896.

Balaguer, Vicente. “Account of Rizal’s Last Moments.” 1896.

Rizal, Narcisa. “Memoirs of Narcisa Rizal.” 1913.

Zaide, Gregorio F. “Jose Rizal: Life, Works, and Writings of a Genius, Writer, Scientist, and National
Hero.” 1984.

Ocampo, Ambeth R. “Rizal Without the Overcoat.” 1990.