ORLANDO | The annual Red Mass sponsored by the Catholic Lawyers Guild of Central Florida took place at St. James Cathedral, Nov. 6, 2026.

Originating in France in the early 13th century to call upon God to help lawyers and judges adhere to truth and justice, the tradition spread through England and continues today. The name “Red Mass” comes from the tradition of priests-celebrants and the judges of the high court of the time wearing red robes to signify willingness to defend the truth inspired by the Holy Spirit, even at the cost of shedding one’s blood.

At the Mass, two awards are given in recognition of those living out their Catholicity.

St. Thomas More is known as the Protector of Lawyers. The St. Thomas More award is presented to a member of the legal profession whose accomplishments represent the principles and ideals of the saint. Retired Judge Carmine M. Bravo was recognized as someone who displays commitment to Catholic social teaching, born out in his daily living; promotes the application of Christian principles; and encourages all Catholic members of the bar to know and live their faith fully, both in their private and public lives.

Judge Bravo was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1969 and as the administrative judge for the Seminole County Court, he was Chairman of the Education Committee for the Coalition for Awareness of Domestic Violence, and the Video and Related Technology Committee. He activated several technology advancements in the Seminole County court system.

Judge Bravo also served as a mentor in the Seminole County School System. Having been certified in several phases of Mediation and Arbitration he served as a private judge and special magistrate, as well as a Federal Court Mediator and Arbitrator. Prior to election to the bench, he actively practiced in the areas of family law, commercial law, criminal law, and general practice. He is the author of the Lexis “Criminal Sentencing” and wrote the updates for the Lexis-Nexis Family Law publication for several years.

A parishioner of Annunciation Parish, he remains active in the community by participation in Sertoma, Knights of Columbus, Chamber of Commerce activities, Private Business Association of Seminole, and PROBUS (Italian American Club). The founding member of the Catholic Lawyers Guild of Central Florida provided volunteer services for veterans through Seminole County Legal Aid and coached youth sports for more than 20 years. Judge Bravo also served as chairman of the board of advisors for the Barry School of Law in Orlando and as adjunct professor. He and his wife, Maureen, have six children and 18 grandchildren.

St. Martin de Porres is the patron saint of justice, having devoted his life to the corporal works of mercy. Catholic Campus Ministry at the University of Central Florida received the St. Martin de Porres award for walking alongside university students during one of the most important and formative periods of their lives. Striving to provide a welcoming and supportive spiritual home where students can encounter Christ, build meaningful friendships, find a sense of belonging, and receive guidance as they navigate their academic, personal, and spiritual journeys, CCM UCF promotes understanding and respect and extends friendship to all while working and praying for peace.

In collaboration with the Diocese of Orlando, the Brotherhood of Hope, and St. Paul’s Outreach, Catholic Campus Ministry at UCF seek to foster a vibrant Catholic community rooted in prayer, worship, service, fellowship, and discipleship. Through these partnerships, they are committed to forming faithful Catholic leaders who are equipped to serve the Church and the wider community with compassion, humility, and a spirit of evangelization.

By participating in service initiatives with apostolates of the laity such as the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, supporting diocesan entities and parishes by volunteering, taking direct action such as feeding the homeless, and engaging in international mission work, students are encouraged to put their faith into action and become witnesses of Christ’s love.

Ultimately, Catholic Campus Ministry at UCF seeks to accompany students in becoming lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ, rooted in the Catholic faith, strengthened by community, and committed to serving others. Through prayer, formation, fellowship, and mission, they hope to inspire students to grow in holiness, develop their leadership, and carry the light of Christ into their families, professions, communities, and the world.

The Catholic Lawyers Guild of Central Florida is a lay Catholic organization whose focus is prayer, study, generosity and evangelization. The group seeks to help members integrate and further the Catholic faith of its members in their chosen profession. Membership is open to Catholic lawyers and law and pre-law students.

Staff Report, November 13, 2026