The Red Mass is a centuries-old tradition, originating in the 13th century, that brings together judges, lawyers, and officials of all faiths to seek God’s guidance in administering justice. Traditionally held at the start of the judicial year, it was first celebrated in Paris in 1245 and later introduced in England during the reign of Edward I, where it earned its name from the scarlet robes worn by the Lord High Justices. In the United States, the first Red Mass took place in New York City on October 6, 1928, and today, it marks the opening of the U.S. Supreme Court’s new term in Washington D.C., celebrated at the Cathedral of Saint Matthew the Apostle.
In Los Angeles, the St. Thomas More Society, an association of Catholic legal professionals, honors its namesake, St. Thomas More, whose legacy has inspired lawyers across faiths. The society has chosen him as the patron of the Red Mass, continuing the tradition of faith and justice.
Save the Date!
The entire legal community is invited to the 43rd annual Red Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels on October 14, 2025, at 5:30 PM. If you’re new to the St. Thomas More Society of Los Angeles and have never attended this annual celebration for legal professionals, we warmly invite you to join us for this meaningful tradition.
Our Principal Celebrant will be Most Reverend José H. Gomez, Archbishop of Los Angeles. As we get closer to the date, we’ll provide more details about the event—stay tuned, and we hope to see you there!
