The service is meant to invoke God 's blessings on public officials . The Mass is celebrated on the Sunday before Supreme Court 's term opens . Critics say it 's inappropriate for justices to attend . Chief Justice John Roberts joined associate justices Antonin Scalia , Anthony Kennedy , Clarence Thomas , Stephen Breyer and Samuel Alito for the service at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle , a beautifully ornate church located a few blocks from the White House . Comment:
The service is meant to invoke God 's blessings on public officials . The Mass is celebrated on the Sunday before Supreme Court 's term opens . Critics say it 's inappropriate for justices to attend . Comment: