Red Mass

noun

, Roman Catholic Church.

1. a votive Mass of the Holy Ghost said as a blessing for the legal profession.

Example Sentences

To the soaring strains of ancient hymns and patriotic songs, hundreds of worshipers gathered in Washington’s Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle on Sunday for a traditional Red Mass meant as a reminder to believers — and especially judges, lawyers and other civil servants — of a higher power stretching far beyond themselves.

From Washington Post

Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. joined Associate Justice Amy Coney Barrett, retired justice Stephen G. Breyer and other government officials for the Red Mass, a centuries-old tradition hailing from Europe named in part, organizers noted, for the color of fire symbolizing the Holy Spirit.

From Washington Post

District resident Aiseosa Osaghae knew nothing about the tradition of the Red Mass before she started at Georgetown as a law student in 2019.

From Washington Post

The Red Mass is traditionally timed for the day before the Supreme Court’s new session.

From Washington Post

It’s referred to as the “Red Mass” because celebrants wear red.

From Washington Times