Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Bishop John Noonan led the Red Mass in Orlando, attended by nearly 100 lawyers and members of the Catholic Lawyers Guild of Central Florida. The event included judges, attorneys, and other legal professionals reaffirming their dedication to justice and faith.

The guild presented the St. Martin de Porres award to Rescue Outreach Mission, a nonprofit assisting disadvantaged individuals in Central Florida. The organization focuses on bridging homelessness to housing and self-sufficiency for families and individuals.

St. Martin de Porres is recognized as the patron saint of social justice, known for his commitment to helping the sick and poor through acts of mercy.

Leticia Diaz, dean at Barry University Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law, received the St. Thomas More award from the Lawyers Guild. Dean Diaz is notable as the first Cuban American female dean at an ABA-accredited law school in the U.S., reflecting her efforts to enhance access within the legal field. Her journey from immigration as a child to becoming a legal educator is influenced by her Catholic faith and values instilled by Barry University's founders.

St. Thomas More is revered as a protector of lawyers, having served under Henry VIII before opposing him over religious disputes, which led to his execution in 1535.

The Red Mass tradition began in France during the early 13th century, serving as a ceremony where God was invoked for guidance towards truth and justice among legal professionals. Participants wore red robes symbolizing their commitment to defending truth inspired by spiritual conviction.