RED MASS POSTPONED

For 33 years, beginning in 1987 Thomas More society with the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw has sponsored an annual Red Mass, in October, the lawyers and judges of Saginaw, Bay and MidIand Counties and surrounding areas, and marking a rededication to the of The Rule Of Law in our country and state.  It was patterned after an ancient tradition begun in England around 1300, at the opening of each term Court which was attended members the Bench and Bar.

The service was open to all members of  the legal profession, their families and friends, regardless of their faith or denomination, and here in Saginaw, featured the awarding or the Edward J. McCardle Memorial Tribute to a distinguished member of the community who had displayed legal excellence, had made significant contributions to their profession and their community,  and who had put the principles and ideals of St. Thomas More into practice in his/her everyday life.  It also included a reception, following the service, where those in attendance could meet fellow members of their profession from other jurisdictions for friendly conversation and exchanging of ideas.

This year 2020, of course, is far different than those years of the past, which we remember fondly. The Covid-19 Virus has changed the lives of us all.   We hoped that by October things might change dramatically and positively, so that we could once again celebrate this fine tradition. But unfortunately. the Pandemic is still very much with us, and there are predictions of a "second wave" by health authorities and governmental leaders.

Therefore, after careful and prayerful consideration by our planning committee, and out of an abundance of caution for everyone concerned, we have decided that this Red Mass, scheduled for October, will not take place.  While we are certainly not cancelling this very worthwhile ceremony, we believe that it should be postponed until October of 2021, when,  hopefully,  there will be a viable vaccine available for everyone and when we will be able to honor the tradition in our usual manner, without fear of harm or injury to anyone.

Until then, Be Well and Stay Safe! And God’s blessing to all of you.

Respectfully,

The St. Thomas More Society