Diocese of Orange to Host 27th Annual Red Mass for Legal Community
GARDEN GROVE, CALIF., (SEPT. 25, 2015) – The Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange and the St. Thomas More Society will host the 27th annual Red Mass, a ceremony celebrated at the opening of the judicial year. Orange County judges, lawyers, public officials, and law faculty members will attend as a group.
Event Details
- What: The 27th Annual Red Mass
- When: Monday, October 5, 2015, at 6:00 p.m.
- Where: Holy Family Cathedral, Orange
- Who: Open to all members of the legal community, public officials, and law faculty.
- Reception: A dinner hosted by the St. Thomas More Society will follow the Mass, where an exemplary legal professional will receive the St. Thomas More Award.
Statements from Diocesan and Community Leadership
Bishop Kevin Vann:
“I am pleased to take this special opportunity to recognize the dedication and mission of our local legal community and seek to strengthen their resolve in the upcoming judicial session. I am honored to attend this celebration and the St. Thomas More Society dinner after the Red Mass where an exemplary legal professional will receive the St. Thomas More Award.”
William Malecki, Chair of the 2015 Red Mass Committee:
“The Red Mass in Orange County is an honored tradition that brings the legal community together and reminds us of the lawyer’s duty as a servant to his client and to justice and equity in the law.”
The History and Tradition of the Red Mass
This unique Mass for the legal community has been celebrated for many centuries all over the world.
- European Origins: The custom originated in Europe in the 13th century. The first recorded “Red Mass” took place in Paris in 1245. The tradition began in England around 1310.
- The Name: It received its distinguished name from the brilliant scarlet vestments worn by the Mass celebrant and the red robes worn by the Lord High Justices in England.
- U.S. Tradition: Each year in Washington, D.C., members of the U.S. Supreme Court, the President, and members of Congress celebrate the Red Mass at the Cathedral of St. Matthew. It is also celebrated in most state capitals and major cities.
- Orange County Tradition: The first Red Mass in Orange County was celebrated in 1988 and has become an honored tradition.
Media Contact
Ryan Lilyengren
714-282-3075