Thirteenth annual Red Mass celebrates legal community
By THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN
The 13th annual Red Mass in Bakersfield will be held at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 10 at St. Francis of Assisi Church.
The Mass is a special celebration for attorneys, judges and others involved in the legal process, but it's open to all, said organizer and attorney David A. Torres.
"It's a great opportunity for police, lawyers, firemen, soldiers, everybody to come together and celebrate," Torres said.
This year's theme is "Celebrating Families in the Legal Profession." Torres said children will lead the procession at the beginning of the Mass, followed by judges.
Children will also do the readings, and Monsignor Craig Harrison will deliver the Homily. Afterward there's a dinner prepared by Fred's BBQ Factory, plus free wine.
Torres said the Red Mass began in 1243 when Catholicism was the primary religion throughout Europe and the Supreme Courts in Europe began their sessions on the first Wednesday in October. Pope Innocent IV began the tradition of holding a Mass on that day asking the Invocation of the Holy Spirit as a source of wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude and strength for the coming term of the court.
Red signifies the Holy Spirit.
To RSVP for the Mass, call the Law Offices of David A. Torres at 326-0857. Specify how many people, including how many children, will attend.
St. Francis of Assisi Church is at 900 H St.
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