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.