On Saturday, September 27, Our Mother of Good Counsel Parish in Homer Glen hosted its fourth annual Red Mass, a deeply meaningful liturgy honoring those in the legal profession. The Red Mass has its roots in medieval Europe and takes its name from the red vestments historically worn by clergy, symbolizing the Holy Spirit’s presence in guiding judges, lawyers, and public officials in the pursuit of justice. This tradition was imported to the United States in the early 20th century (with an early U.S. Red Mass celebrated in New York in 1928) and has since become a cherished way to pray for wisdom in civic life. At the parish, the Red Mass specifically honors Catholic members of the Will County Bar Association and others who serve in the administration of justice.
This year’s liturgy was celebrated by The Most Reverend Ronald A. Hicks, Bishop of the Joliet Diocese, with The Very Reverend Grzegorz “Greg” Podwysocki (Judicial Vicar of the Joliet Diocese and Pastor of Our Mother of Good Counsel) concelebrating. In attendance was Honorable Judge Art Smigielski, Will County Circuit Court Judge. Both Father Greg (Podwysocki) and Judge Smigielski serve as trustees of Everest Academy, and Bishop Hicks is the Everest Academy Seper Altius Award winner for 2024–2025.
Adding to the solemn beauty of the Mass, Everest’s own eighth graders, Francesca Abbinanti and Grace Abbinanti, served at the altar—an inspiring example of youth contributing in service to the Church’s mission.
The Red Mass is a poignant reminder that the pursuit of justice is not only a professional calling but also a spiritual one, dependent on prayer, discernment, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.