History of the Red Mass

It all started when…

The custom of a special Mass for members of the Bench and Bar arose in England, France and Italy in the 13th century. The first such celebration recorded was held in 1245 in Paris. For centuries the Mass was said in the chapel of the Order of Advocates, La Sainte Chappelle, built by King Louis IX of France who was later canonized as St. Louis.

In England, the tradition began about 1310 during the reign of Edward I. The entire Bench and Bar attended the Mass together at the beginning of each term of Court. The clergy were vested in red, and the judges of the High Court, who were all doctors of the law, conformed to ecclesiastical tradition and also wore red robes. As a result, the celebration became known as the Red Mass.

Many scholars maintain that the name has a deeper significance. The liturgical red symbolizes a willingness to defend truth, inspired by the Holy Spirit. Today, the Red Mass marks the traditional beginning of the judicial year with the opening session of the United States Supreme Court and the Supreme Court of Texas, and continues to be a source of spiritual inspiration for members of the legal community.