The Annual Votive Mass of the Holy Spirit (the Red Mass) celebrated in the Catholic Church for judges, attorneys, law school professors, students, and government officials was held at St. Joseph’s Church in Sentul, Kuala Lumpur on Saturday, January 16th. The Mass which was attended by close to 300 faithful was presided over by the Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur, His Grace Julian Leow. Archbishop Emeritus Murphy Pakiam together with other clergy concelebrated the Mass. The Mass was animated by members of the Catholic Lawyers’ Society.

In his homily the Archbishop reminded Catholic Lawyers of their duty and responsibility as lawyers to act in good faith and seek justice. He urged those in the legal profession to reflect on what the Catholic church believes.

The Mass requests guidance from the Holy Spirit for all who seek justice, and offers the opportunity to reflect on what Catholics believe is the God-given power and responsibility of all in the legal profession. It is held to invoke the Holy Spirit, the Advocate, on all those involved in the administration of Justice and upholding the Rule of Law.

Originating in Europe during the High Middle Ages, the Red Mass is so called from the red vestments traditionally worn in symbolism of the tongues of fire (the Holy Spirit) that descended on the Apostles at Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4). Its name also exemplifies the scarlet robes worn by royal judges that attended the Mass centuries ago.

By Mary Bernadatte

 

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