Blue Mass To Honor Emergency Services

TRUMBULL — The second annual diocesan “Blue Mass” honoring Catholic police, fire, and emergency services personnel will be celebrated by Bishop William E. Lori on Sunday, September 7, at 2:30 pm at St Catherine of Siena Parish. Hundreds of workers and their families from all over Fairfield County are expected to attend.

The Blue Mass tradition dates to 1934 with Father Thomas Dade of St Patrick Church in Washington, D.C. Many dioceses, including the Diocese of Bridgeport, began celebrating a Blue Mass after the tragedies of September 11.

“The purpose of the Blue Mass is to call together these important people in our community, to encourage them and acknowledge their service,” explained Father Frank C McGrath, diocesan director of clergy personnel and chaplain of the Westport Police and Fire Departments. “It is also a time to remember those who have given their lives in service to others, on September 11 and many other much more ordinary days.”

The Mass is open to the public and all Catholic first responders are encouraged to attend. For more information, call 372-4301, ext 247.