This past November, several MG Law attorneys had the privilege of attending the 27th Annual Richmond Red Mass and dinner, which was also attended by the Honorable Antonin Scalia, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. The Red Mass was held at Saint Benedict Catholic Church and sponsored by the St. Thomas More Society and Bon Secours Health System. The Red Mass, a tradition rich in history, is attended by judges, lawyers and government officials of all faiths and creeds “for the purpose of invoking God’s Blessing and guidance in the administration of justice.” Richmond’s 27th Annual Red Mass was a great success, as nearly 300 people gathered at Saint Benedict in order to celebrate and take part in this noble tradition.
A dinner reception and remarks by Justice Scalia followed the Red Mass in the Marble Hall of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Justice Scalia’s remarks to the audience centered upon the strength and value of faith in the face of modern day opposition and criticism. Similar to Bishop Francis X. DiLorenzo’s homily during the Red Mass, Justice Scalia called for individuals to be courageous in their beliefs and morality, recalling St. Thomas More as a symbol of that courage and the steadfast principles from which St. Thomas More would not yield. Those in attendance could not help but be impressed by Justice Scalia’s candor, charisma and intellect which radiated throughout his speech.
