The Diocese of Scranton celebrated its annual Red Mass on October 4, in the Cathedral of Saint Cathedral, Scranton.
The Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L., Bishop of Scranton, was the principal celebrant, and concelebrants included priests who have earned a degree in Canon Law. The homilist was the Most Reverend John O. Barres, S.T.D., J.C.L., D.D., Bishop of Allentown.
Historically, the Red Mass is attended by judges, lawyers and legislators for the purpose of invoking God’s blessing and guidance in the administration of justice. Its traditional name is derived from the color of vestments worn by the celebrants of the Mass, symbolizing the tongues of fire which indicate the presence of the Holy Spirit. Moreover, the robes of the attending royal judges were, in ancient days, bright scarlet.
For the Diocese of Scranton’s Red Mass, members of the 11 county bar associations in the Diocese and the Diocesan Tribunal staff were invited to participate.
Bishop Barres, who earned a JCL in Canon Law from the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome, has been an active member of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Ad Hoc Committee for Religious Liberty. He also serves on two other USCCB committees: the Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life, and Youth; and the Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis.
To Read Bishop Barres’ homily, click here.
