Red Mass held for Erickson(’81)
A Red Mass, which is a centuries-old Catholic ceremony honoring legal professionals, was held in Fargo on March 8, for Judge Ralph Erickson (‘81).
Judge Erickson was recently appointed to the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals. He served 24 years as a federal trial judge and presided over nearly 500 cases, filling in on the 8th Circuit in 92 cases.
The Red Mass tradition dates back to 1245, when the Bishop of Paris brought together lawyers and law students to pray for wisdom and good counsel. For the past 65 years, the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle in Washington, D.C., hosts a Red Mass the Sunday before the Supreme Court session, and many justices attend.
The Red Mass for Erickson was held at Sts. Anne & Joachim Church, in conjunction with Erickson’s investiture.
