Red Mass

What Is the Red Mass?

During the Red Mass, we call upon God the Holy Spirit to grant light, inspiration and guidance to those serving in the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government.

The Red Mass originated in France in the early 13th century as a service in which God was called upon to help lawyers and judges adhere to truth and justice.  The tradition soon spread to England, where, during the reign of King Edward I, the entire Bench and Bar would mark the opening of each Term of Court by attending a Mass together.  In those services, the priest-celebrants, as well as the judges of the High Court, wore red robes to signify their willingness to defend the truth inspired by the Holy Spirit, even at the cost of shedding one’s blood.  Thus, the celebration became popularly known as the “Red Mass”.

In the Diocese of Orlando, Bishop John Noonan continues the Red Mass tradition, inviting those who serve in the institutions of the courts and the law to join him in prayer and ask the Spirit of God to guide and direct them in their service to the people of Central Florida.

Many lawyers and others who work in the legal systems wear the color red to the Red Mass.  All faiths and denominations are welcome and encouraged to attend.

The 2023 Red Mass on November 9th, 2023 at 12:00 p.m.

The Catholic Lawyers Guild anticipates judges from Orange County and Seminole County, as well as from Federal Court and the 5th and 6th DCAs to attend wearing their robes.  It is great to have a large showing of Christian Lawyers, and others who work in the legal field, attend to pray together for all lawyers and judges.

Free parking is available in the MAAGarage located near State Lane on West Robinson Street, approximately one-half block west of the Cathedral. Parking spaces for St. James are clearly identified.

For the first time since the pandemic, we will also have a luncheon following the Red Mass. The luncheon will be in the Social Hall across the courtyard at the south side of the Cathedral. If you plan to attend the luncheon please R.S.V.P to elaluz@scsplaw.com by October 31, 2023.

If you would like to sponsor the Red Mass, please fill out this sponsorship form and email it to Matthew Gripp at mattgrippclg@gmail.com. You may make your sponsorship payment on the “Donate” page of this website.

You hay also mail your sponsorship form and check to: Catholic Lawyers Guild C/O Matthew Gripp at

4250 Alafaya Trail Suite 212 #131, Oviedo FL, 32765

We hope you can attend the Red Mass. If you have any questions, contact any of the following persons, who are currently serving as Directors of the Catholic Lawyers Guild: