Red Mass for Legal Professionals

Homilist: TBD

Closing Speaker: TBD

A tradition dating back to the 11th century, the Red Mass is is an ecumenical, civic celebration widely attended by judges, lawyers and officials of all faiths so as to invoke God's blessing and guidance in the administration of justice.

The Red Mass is an annual event traditionally held at the opening of the judicial year. Judges and lawyers attend in a body, joined by public officials and law faculty. The Red Mass was first celebrated in Paris in 1245. From the time of Edward I, the Mass was offered in England at Westminster Abbey and received its name from the scarlet robes worn by the Lord High Justices. The first American Red Mass was held in New York City on October 6, 1928 at Old St. Andrew's Church on Duane Street. In Washington D.C., the Red Mass opens the new term of the U.S. Supreme Court each year. The justices join in the celebration at the Cathedral of Saint Matthew the Apostle.