The annual Red Mass is sponsored by the St. Thomas More Guild, an organization for Catholic lawyers in the Diocese of Buffalo. (File Photo)

Bishop Richard J. Malone, bishop of Buffalo, will be the principal celebrant and homilist at the annual Red Mass at St. Joseph Cathedral, 50 Franklin St., Buffalo, on Wednesday, Sept. 28, at 12:05 p.m.  Hon. Lawrence J. Vilardo, United States district judge, will give remarks at the close of the Mass on behalf of the judiciary.

Area lawyers, judges, and public officials of all faiths are encouraged to attend with members of their staff and the entire community.  As in past years, judges and elected officials are invited to participate in the opening procession with the bishop; the procession begins in the Lady Chapel.  Judges and justices should plan on wearing their judicial robes.

The Red Mass, named for the color of the vestments worn by the celebrants, is offered each fall at the cathedral to invoke divine guidance and strength for those entrusted with the responsibility of the legal and judicial systems.

Originating in France in the 13th century, the Red Mass was first celebrated in England in 1310 at Westminster Abbey.  Its inauguration in the United States came in New York City in 1928.

The Red Mass is sponsored by the St. Thomas More Guild, an organization for Catholic lawyers in the Diocese of Buffalo.