Red Mass: A Mass for the Legal Community

About this event

Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 | 5:30 p.m. Chapel of St. Ignatius | Seattle University People of all faith traditions and backgrounds are warmly welcome Reception to follow Seattle University School of Law, in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Seattle, invites members of the legal community, alumni, faculty, students, and friends to come together for Red Mass, an annual tradition offering a moment of reflection, fellowship, and renewal at the beginning of the legal year. This year's Mass will be presided over by Father Alejandro Olayo-Méndez, S.J., Seattle University's new rector, with a special musical performance by Pilar Margarita Hernández Escontrías, Assistant Professor of Law at Seattle University School of Law. A reception will immediately follow the Mass. The Mass will also include the induction of Seattle University School of Law's newest members of Alpha Sigma Nu, the honor society of Jesuit colleges and universities: Taylor Berger-Knorr '26, J. Decker O'Donnell '26, and Meg Sayre-Salvo '26. Their induction recognizes their commitment to scholarship, loyalty, and service, the three values at the heart of Alpha Sigma Nu. A tradition rooted in law and justice The Red Mass is a centuries-old Catholic tradition that brings together judges, lawyers, law students, public officials, and others connected to the administration of justice. Originating in Europe during the Middle Ages, the Mass invokes the guidance of the Holy Spirit for those entrusted with the responsibilities of law and justice. The name comes from the red vestments traditionally worn for the celebration, symbolizing the Holy Spirit. Today, Red Mass offers an opportunity for the legal community to step away from the demands of professional life and reflect on the values that give the work of law its larger purpose: justice, wisdom, integrity, service, and the common good.

Who

• Father Alejandro Olayo-Méndez, S.JSpeaker
• Pilar Margarita Hernández EscontríasPerformer

Venue

Seattle University

Seattle, WA

Venue website

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