Red Mass invokes God’s blessing on judiciary and legal system

Bishop Michael Mulvey presided over the Red Mass at Corpus Christi Cathedral on Oct. 20. Judges and lawyers were in attendance, as well as those in the legal profession.

During his homily, Bishop Michael Mulvey said, “The Law of Love is written in the heart of every one of us,” he said. “As a man, Jesus laughed and cried. He associated with sinners and was criticized for it.”

“While defending human life, we must first understand that every person we meet is loved by God. Justice is rooted in mercy and love. God did not give us cowardice but power, love, and prudence. Not a human power, but the power to heal, restore and reform,” Bishop Mulvey said. “Let us pray that we will be an example to those we serve.”

The keynote speaker, introduced by diocesan General Counsel Marc Cervantes, described U.S. District Judge David S. Morales as an alumnus of Incarnate Word Academy in Corpus Christi, St. Edward’s University in Austin, and a graduate of St. Mary’s University in San Antonio. Cervantes said attending Catholic schools gave Judge Morales an excellent education and the moral fortitude to do his job.

According to Judge Morales, the greatest motivator for any rehabilitation “is hope,” referring to the incarcerated in the present prison system. Those with a 10-year sentence are more likely to be rehabilitated than those with longer (25-35 years) sentences.

“When handing down a sentencing, I often pray for wisdom, understanding, counsel and fortitude,” Judge Morales said. During allocution the judge addresses the convicted defendant before sentencing. “Allocuting has given me a genuine opportunity to listen and to recognize God’s call and respond to it.”

Vicar General Father James Stembler, and Adjunct Judicial Vicar, Father Joseph Lopez concelebrated Mass with the bishop.
 

About The Red Mass

The Red Mass is a special service attended by local judges, elected officials, lawyers, and members of the public, calling upon God as the supreme lawgiver for His guidance and blessings on the administration of justice and those whose duty it is to teach, judge, and resolve legal matters. The Mass also encourages participants to reflect upon the God-given power and responsibility of all in the legal profession.