As the U.S. Supreme Court begins its new term, a centuries-old tradition, the Red Mass, lives on. For members of the St. Thomas More Society of Los Angeles and the legal community at large, the Red Mass is a solemn and beautiful ceremony dedicated to the legal profession, a moment of reflection and prayer for wisdom and guidance for the judicial year ahead.
While its origins are Catholic, the Red Mass is celebrated with an ecumenical spirit. Judges, lawyers, paralegals, law students, and government officials of all faiths and traditions are warmly invited to attend.
The Ancient Call for Universal Virtues
The history of the Red Mass dates back to 13th-century Paris. The first recorded celebration was in 1245 at Sainte-Chapelle, where the Mass was held to mark the official opening of the judicial calendar. Its name comes from the vibrant red vestments symbolizing the flames of the Holy Spirit, invoked to grant the virtues of wisdom, understanding, counsel, and fortitude to those who serve the law. The tradition was also marked by the scarlet robes of the attending judges.
The law, in its ideal form, serves everyone. Therefore, the prayer for the just administration of that law has always implicitly extended to all people who practice it.
St. Thomas More: A Patron Saint of Conscience for All
St. Thomas More, the patron saint of lawyers and politicians, was executed for his refusal to violate his conscience. His story is a powerful testament to his fidelity to principles, promotion of justice, and restraining the harmful influence of those who advance their own interests at the expense of the weak. His legacy inspires all to each uphold their ethical duties with firmness and courage.
Ecumenism
The Red Mass is a call to community and shared purpose.
All attendees, regardless of their faith, tradition, and background, are invited to participate. The homily, in particular, is typically delivered by a bishop or priest who focuses on themes directly relevant to the legal profession, such as ethics, public service, and the pursuit of justice.
The central part of the Mass is the Liturgy of the Eucharist (Holy Communion). The Church asks that only Catholics in a state of grace receive Communion. Guests of other faiths and traditions are invited to either remain in the pews for a moment of quiet personal reflection or to come forward, with their arms crossed over their chest, for a blessing.
An Invitation for Today
When you attend a Red Mass, you will see judges, attorneys, students, other legal professionals, and lawmakers from all faiths, traditions, and communities sitting alongside one another, united in a shared purpose, the commitment to the ideals of their profession.
We invite you to join us.
