Pope Leo XII, addressing the challenge presented by various secret societies, particularly Freemasonry, published the apostolic constitution Quo Graviora. This document served to reinforce the Catholic Church’s longstanding prohibition against Catholics becoming affiliated with Masonic organizations. The papal decree emphasized the perceived risks posed by Freemasonry, which included a focus on rationalist ideologies that contradicted Catholic doctrines. The Church viewed these ideologies as detrimental to both individual faith and societal moral fabric.

The issuance of Quo Graviora came during a period when the Church was seeking to regain authority in the face of rising secularism and Enlightenment ideals that questioned traditional authority structures. Pope Leo XII’s stance reflected an effort to unify Catholic believers against what the Church interpreted as moral decay initiated by secret societies, specifically highlighting the importance of doctrinal fidelity. This was particularly relevant given the turbulent political climate of the time, where liberal movements threatened established order.

Through this constitution, Leo XII aimed to clarify the consequences for Catholics who disobeyed the prohibition, including the potential for excommunication. This served to alert the faithful about the Church's serious view of Freemasonry and its principles. Over the years, Quo Graviora laid the groundwork for further Church documents that continued to address issues surrounding secret societies, establishing a narrative in which the Church consistently positioned itself against perceived threats to Christian values and community.