The red robe, also known as the red cassock, is worn by certain members of the Catholic Church who hold specific roles in the hierarchy. The most common wearers of the red cassock are cardinals, who are senior members of the clergy and advisors to the Pope. Cardinals are appointed by the Pope and are responsible for choosing the next Pope when the current Pope dies or resigns. The red color of the cassock is symbolic of the blood of martyrs and represents the cardinal's willingness to defend the faith even to the point of shedding his own blood. In addition to cardinals, some bishops and chaplains also wear the red cassock as a sign of their office and authority within the Church.
What kind of priest wears red?
In the Catholic Church, a priest wearing a red vestment or stole usually indicates that he is celebrating a Mass for the Feast of the Martyrs or a Mass for the Holy Spirit. This is different from the red cassock worn by cardinals, as priests do not wear cassocks.
During the Feast of the Martyrs, which is observed on various dates throughout the liturgical year, priests may wear red vestments to honor the courage and sacrifice of the martyrs who died for their faith. The color red represents the blood of the martyrs.
A red stole may also be worn during a Mass for the Holy Spirit, such as the celebration of Confirmation. This is because red is a symbol of the Holy Spirit and the fire of His love.
It should be noted that the use of red vestments or stoles is not limited to priests. Bishops and deacons may also wear red vestments or stoles on these occasions.
