For over fifty (50) years, the St. Thomas More Society of Maryland has served as Maryland’s leading association of Catholic lawyers, judges, law students and others in the legal community. As a recognized specialty bar of the Maryland State Bar Association (MSBA), the Society’s mission is to promote the practice of the Roman Catholic faith in the legal profession based on the example set by St. Thomas More. Toward that end, the Society typically hosts a number of events throughout the year including:
Annual Meeting
A dinner meeting during which the Members vote for the Society’s Officers and Board of Governors. (usually in February)
Annual Spring Lecture of Lawyers
Featured speakers address topics of interest to Catholics engaged in the legal profession.
Annual Fall Retreat
A full-day retreat for members to reflect on their Catholic faith and the role of their faith in their day-to-day professional lives.
Annual Red Mass
A traditional Red Mass petitioning for guidance from the Holy Spirit for all those in the legal profession. (usually in October)
Annual Man for All Seasons Award Banquet
(immediately following the Red Mass) – A banquet in honor of someone whose contributions to the legal profession emulate the model set for us by St. Thomas More.
Through these events, its website and other activities, the Society provides a welcoming community of faith in support of its Members that fosters professional comradery and encourages open and frank discussions about issues affecting Catholics engaged in the legal profession.
The Society is organized and exists as a not-for-profit corporation under the laws of Maryland and is a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) under the United States Internal Revenue Code. The Society operates as a recognized specialty bar in good standing with the MSBA. The Society’s primary source of revenue is annual dues collected from its Members. The Society is managed by its Officers and Board of Governors, all of whom are elected by the Members in accordance with the Society’s Bylaws.
The Society is not a Political Action Committee (PAC), does not participate in fundraising of any kind, and does not forward solicitations for financial support.