Red Mass Brings Together Legal Community
Posted inCommunications, News Releases
- Catholic Diocese of Saint Petersburg Announces Annual Red Mass
Date: Tuesday, February 11, 2025
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Location: Christ the King Catholic Church, 821 South Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa
In a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages, members of the legal profession, including judges, will gather for the annual Red Mass, on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 821 South Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL.
The “Red Mass” dates back to the thirteenth century when it officially opened the term of the court for most European countries. The participants—government officials, lawyers, and judges—would proceed into a church clothed in red vestments or red garments, signifying the fire of the holy spirit’s guidance to all who pursue justice in their daily lives. Judges, lawyers, students, professors, and others in the legal field are invited.
Bishop Gregory Parkes will be the principal celebrant and will deliver the homily. This event is organized by the Tampa Bay Catholic Lawyers Guild and Father Timothy Corcoran, a retired federal judge and Catholic priest.
The Diocese invites all members of the legal community, as well as the general public, to join in this special celebration. The Mass will include special prayers for those who serve in the legal field. The media are invited to cover this event.
These judges will have a prominent role in the Red Mass: - First Reading: Hon. Melissa C. Black, County Judge, Thirteenth Judicial Circuit
- Second Reading: Hon. Jennifer Gabbard, Circuit Judge, Thirteenth Judicial Circuit
- Oath of Attorney: Hon. Charles R. Wilson, U.S. Circuit Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals, Eleventh Circuit
- Prayer of the Faithful: Hon. Cory L. Chandler, County Judge, Thirteenth Judicial Circuit