Liturgical Colours: A Summary - The Red

Red has a dual imagery:

• On one hand, red symbolises the shedding of blood and is therefore used on

• Palm Sunday (when Christ entered Jerusalem to prepare for His death)
• Good Friday, any other commemoration of the Lord’s passion
• The votive Mass of the Precious Blood
• The days marking the martyrdom of the apostles (except St. John)
• and the feasts of other martyrs who offered their lives for the faith.

• On the other hand, red also signifies the burning fire of God’s love. For this reason, red vestments are worn on
• Pentecost when the Holy Spirit descended on the apostles and tongues of fire rested on their heads;
• For the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation;
• and for the votive Masses of the Holy Spirit.