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Blue Mass

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This article is about the Roman Catholic Blue Mass for law enforcement professionals. For the obsolete medical preparation, see blue mass.
Blue Mass
Blue mass at St. Patrick's Catholic Church (Washington, D.C.)
Observed byCatholics, Other Christians
SignificanceHonor veterans of the Public Safety field
DateVaries by community
First time1934

A Blue Mass is a Mass celebrated annually in the Catholic Church for those employed in the "public safety field" (i.e. police officers, firefighters, correctional officers, 911 operators and EMS personnel).[1] The color blue relates to the blue-colored uniforms predominantly used by these services.[2] Similar to the Red Mass, the service honors those who have died in the line of duty and those currently serving as first responders.[3] The Mass is an opportunity for the community to show gratitude to first responders and their families.[4]

Background

In Washington, D.C. the service is held in conjunction with National Police Week.[4] Psalm 91:11, "For He will give His angels [especial] charge over you to accompany and defend and preserve you in all your ways [of obedience and service]," are often invoked during the service.[4][5] Though usually held in a Catholic church, the events are generally considered to be ecumenical or non-denominational.[6]

The Blue Mass dates to September 29, 1934,[7] when Rev. Thomas Dade started the service as part of his duties with the Catholic Police and Fireman’s Society.[8] The first mass was held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Washington, D.C. and has grown to a nationwide celebration.[9] The September 29 service was timed to coincide with Michaelmas, the feast of Saint Michael the Archangel, the patron military saint of police officers and military.

See also

References

  1. ^ "Oakland police, firefighters honored at Blue Mass". Oakland North. 2014-10-14. Retrieved 26 December 2014.
  2. ^ Charnley Eveland, Annie (30 September 2014). "St. Pat's hosts Blue Mass for law enforcers". Walla Walla Union-Bulletin. The Seattle Times Company. Archived from the original on 26 December 2014. Retrieved 26 December 2014.
  3. ^ Wuerl, Donald (2014-05-14). "With Prayers and Gratitude: The Blue Mass". Cardinal's Blog. Archdiocese of Washington. Retrieved 26 December 2014.
  4. ^ a b c Long, Carolyn K. (2011-08-05). "What is a Blue Mass?". Angels Over America. Retrieved 26 December 2014.
  5. ^ "20th Annual Blue Mass". St. Patrick Catholic Church. 2014-05-06. Retrieved 2014-12-26.
  6. ^ "Showing gratitude for those who serve". Saint David of Wales Catholic parish. 2014-09-22. Retrieved 2014-12-26.
  7. ^ "Blue Mass Honors Fallen Police and Firefighters". Colton City News. City News Group Inc. 2014-10-24. Retrieved 26 December 2014.
  8. ^ "Msgr. Thomas B. Dade, was pastor in Riverdale". Baltimore Sun. 1994-11-17. Retrieved 26 December 2014.
  9. ^ "LOCAL PARISH HAS "BLUE MASS" TO HONOR AND PRAY FOR FIRST RESPONDERS: POLICE, FIRE AND MEDICAL". Saint David of Wales Catholic parish. 2014-09-01. Archived from the original on 2014-12-26. Retrieved 2014-12-26.
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