PALM BEACH GARDENS | Two colorful liturgies with Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito are upcoming at the Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola, 9999 N. Military Trail in Palm Beach Gardens.
The annual Blue Mass for people working in public safety is planned for 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 2. The liturgy marks the feast of the Guardian Angels, Michael, Raphael and Gabriel, who are known as God’s protector, healer and messenger, respectively. Archangels are the patron saints of police officers and military personnel.
Blue relates to the color of the uniforms traditionally worn by police, firefighters, correctional officers, emergency medical personnel and others working as first responders. The Mass honors those who have died in the line of duty, retired from law enforcement and people currently serving in public safety in Indian River, St. Lucie, Martin, Okeechobee and Palm Beach counties. Afterward, refreshments will be served for all in the cathedral’s Family Life Center.
A Red Mass, for judges, attorneys, law school professors, students and judicial officials, is set for 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 6. Members of the Guild of Catholic Lawyers of the Diocese of Palm Beach are invited to the liturgy to draw attention to the work for justice. The members will gather for lunch afterward in the cathedral hall.
It’s called a Red Mass for the color of clerical vestments worn and the role the Holy Spirit plays in making just decisions, seeking wisdom, understanding, blessing and guidance in the administration of justice for the coming year. Church historians believe a Red Mass was first celebrated in Paris in 1245. The tradition was introduced in the United States in 1928 and is celebrated in dioceses throughout the nation.
To learn about these and other events planned in the Diocese of Palm Beach, visit www.diocesepb.org/news/. For more information, email communications@diocesepb.org or call 561-775-9561.
