A New Jersey man was arrested early Monday after police discovered him camped outside a prominent Washington, D.C., cathedral with incendiary materials — including a Molotov cocktail — just hours before a major religious service attended by legal professionals and public officials.

Louis Geri, 41, of Vineland, New Jersey, was taken into custody by police early on October 6 outside Saint Matthew's Cathedral, where authorities found suspicious items during a routine security patrol ahead of the Red Mass, an annual event marking the opening of the Supreme Court's term, as Daily Mail reports.

Officers from the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Police Department encountered Geri around 6 a.m. on the steps of Saint Matthew's Cathedral, located about four blocks from the White House. Police had been assigned patrol duty at the site as part of the security presence for the Red Mass scheduled later that morning.

According to authorities, Geri was located inside a tent erected on the steps of the cathedral. Police said he refused to vacate the premises, despite having been banned from the church before this incident. Officers placed him under arrest and began inspecting the contents of the tent.

Investigators discovered a Molotov cocktail, vials containing liquid substances, and what they described as possible fireworks. These findings prompted increased concern given the timing and location of the incident, which occurred ahead of a high-profile religious ceremony.

Explosives and Threat-Related Charges Filed

Following his arrest, Geri was charged with multiple offenses, including unlawful entry, possession of a Molotov cocktail, and making threats to kidnap or injure others. The Metropolitan Police Department noted that the arrest drew immediate response from its Arson Task Force and Explosive Ordinance Disposal team.

The investigation is ongoing and being conducted in collaboration with several federal agencies. These include the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the Joint Terrorism Task Force, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Law enforcement emphasized public safety in the hours following Geri's arrest. The scene around Saint Matthew's Cathedral was secured quickly, and authorities urged the public to remain alert and report any suspicious behavior or potential threats.

Red Mass Ceremony Moves Forward as Scheduled

Despite the early morning disruption, the 9 a.m. Red Mass took place as planned. This annual event is hosted by the John Carroll Society and has a long history of drawing Supreme Court justices, legal professionals, and other public officials from across the country.

This year, however, CNN reported that no justices from the high court attended. The event was presided over by Cardinal Robert McElroy, who used his remarks to acknowledge a broader societal shift in trust toward leadership and established institutions.

“I have witnessed a dramatic collapse of faith in institutions of all kinds,” said Cardinal McElroy during the ceremony. His comments highlighted the cultural and political climate in which the Red Mass continues to be observed each year.

Historical and Judicial Significance of the Red Mass

Originating in the United States in 1928, the Red Mass has served as a symbolic opening to the judicial calendar and is meant to seek divine guidance for those involved with law and governance. According to the church’s website, the purpose of the service is to "invoke God's blessing" upon those who administer justice and serve in public office.

The event in Washington, D.C., has been hosted annually at Saint Matthew's Cathedral since 1953. It is one of the most prominent religious observances tied to the legal profession, with previous attendees including U.S. Presidents and members of the Supreme Court bench.

The cathedral itself holds considerable national importance. In 1963, it hosted the funeral for President John F. Kennedy, an event memorialized with a marble plaque marking the location of his casket during the service.

Cathedral Holds Deep Symbolism Across Generations

Beyond its connection to state events, Saint Matthew’s has received visits from global religious figures such as Mother Teresa, Pope John Paul II, and Pope Francis. Its position near the center of the U.S. Capitol attracts many pilgrims and remains a focal point for major religious ceremonies in the country.

This year's Red Mass marked the 73rd annual occurrence of the service under the John Carroll Society's sponsorship. Though no justices attended, the event retained its traditional solemnity and symbolic significance.

With the arrest and safety concerns addressed early in the morning, the Mass aimed to continue its tradition of reflection and unity at the beginning of the judicial year. Authorities ensured that public safety was preserved while religious leaders proceeded with planned rites.

The investigation into Louis Geri’s motives and the origin of the materials found inside his tent remains open. Officials said further updates would be provided as more information becomes available.