Red Mass

Red Mass
Red Mass at the Villanova School of Law (2012)
Type	Mass
Orientation	Catholic Church
Scripture	Acts 2:1–4

A Red Mass is a Catholic Mass annually offered towards all members of the legal profession, regardless of religious affiliation: judges, lawyers, law school professors, law students, and government officials, marking the opening of the judicial year. The religious service requests guidance from the Holy Spirit for all who seek justice, and offers the legal community an opportunity to reflect on the power and responsibility of all in the legal profession.

Originating in Europe during the High Middle Ages, the Red Mass derives from the red vestments traditionally worn in symbolism of the tongues of fire (the Holy Spirit) that descended on the Apostles at Pentecost Sunday (Acts 2:1–4). Its name also exemplifies the scarlet robes worn by royal judges that attended the Mass centuries ago.^[1]

In many countries with a Protestant tradition, such as England and Wales and Australia, a similar church service is held to mark the start of the legal year, with judges customarily wearing their ceremonial regalia.