CATHOLIC LAWYERS URGED TO UPHOLD JUSTICE AT INAUGURAL RED MASS
Members of the Kenya Catholic Lawyers Association (KCLA) have been urged to carry out their professional duties with integrity, accountability and a firm commitment to justice. This call was made during the Association’s inaugural Red Mass held at the Holy Family Minor Basilica.
The Mass was presided over by Bishop Henry Juma of the Catholic Diocese of Kitale, who reminded members of the legal fraternity that their work plays a critical role in shaping a just and peaceful society.
“The law is not merely a profession, but a vocation founded on truth, integrity and service,” Bishop Juma said, noting that the decisions and actions of lawyers directly affect the dignity and well-being of individuals and communities.
Drawing from the life and witness of St. Thomas More, the patron saint of lawyers and statesmen, Bishop Juma challenged legal practitioners to remain guided by conscience, moral courage and faith in their pursuit of truth, justice and peace.
“May we continue to strengthen this association, inspired by the spirit of St. Thomas More, so that we may be authentic witnesses of our Lord Jesus Christ within the legal profession,” he said.
In his remarks, KCCB General Secretary, Very Rev. Jude Waweru, also acknowledged the important role lawyers play in the administration of justice. He urged them to remain united, focused and faithful to the ethical standards that govern their profession.
“Our society is full of people who are thirsty for justice,” Fr. Waweru said.
The Mass was celebrated under the theme, “Walking in the Footsteps of Saint Thomas More: Guided by the Holy Spirit Towards Truth, Justice and Peace.” It brought together members of KCLA, judges, officers of the High Court, representatives of the Law Society of Kenya led by its President, Charles Kanjama, and other legal practitioners. Also present were several priests, including Fr. Patrick Ndungu and Fr. Martin Njihia of the Archdiocese of Nairobi, who are also advocates of the High Court, alongside other clergy who joined the legal fraternity in prayer and reflection.
The Red Mass is a Catholic tradition that invokes the guidance of the Holy Spirit upon judges, lawyers, lawmakers and all those involved in the administration of justice. Its name comes from the red vestments worn during the celebration, symbolizing the Holy Spirit and recalling the tongues of fire at Pentecost.
