The Catholic Lawyers Society (CLS) of Kuala Lumpur celebrated its 32nd Votive Mass of the Holy Spirit, commonly known as the Red Mass at the Cathedral of St John the Evangelist in Kuala Lumpur.
The eucharistic celebration, held at the start of the year, welcomed CLS members, lawyers, pupils in chambers, judicial members, lecturers, family, friends and the faithful from near and far.
An estimated 95 members attended, presided by Bishop of Penang Cardinal Datuk Seri Sebastian Francis, together with Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur Julian Leow Beng Kim, ecclesiastical assistant to the CLS Father Gregory Chan and St John’s parish priest Father Gerard Theraviam.
In his homily, the Cardinal reflected on three themes – the “red” of the mass symbolising the blood of martyrs and the holy spirit; the late Pope Francis’ vision of unity in diversity, equality and justice as well as the inspiration provided by saints like St Carlo Acutis and St Francis Xavier.
The lawyers, he said should be visionaries in their engagement with society.
He also called on them to be guided by faith and vision in their work and outreach.
The Cardinal also spoke about the Latin phrase dilexi te (for I have loved you) which embodies justice expressed through unity, diversity, equality and care for the poor.
CLS president Kevin De Rozario, in his address, further highlighted the deeper meaning of dilexi te – justice tempered with mercy, defending the vulnerable, and serving society with integrity.
Leow added that lawyers must balance mercy, compassion and truth‑seeking in their work.
He thanked the lawyers in attendance and reminded them to contribute to society in their own way, to help the voiceless and vulnerable in society.
This annual mass was coordinated by CLS and De Rozario expressed hope that its members would continue to support its causes, programmes and initiatives.
The event concluded with a photo session together with church leaders and lawyers at the chancel of the cathedral.
This was followed by fellowship on the cathedral grounds.
