Blue Mass

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 throughout the United States[1] in the Catholic Church for those employed in the "public safety field" (i.e. police officers, firefighters, correctional officers, 911 operators and EMS personnel).[2] The color blue relates to the blue-colored uniforms predominantly used by these services.[3] Similar to the Red Mass, the service honors those who have died in the line of duty and those currently serving as first responders.[4] The Mass is an opportunity for the community to show gratitude to first responders and their families.[5]

  1. ^ "PR - Blue Mass - ST. DAVID OF WALES Roman Catholic parish—El Cerrito, CA, Richmond, CA". 2014-12-26. Archived from the original on 2014-12-26. Retrieved 2020-09-29.
  2. ^ "Oakland police, firefighters honored at Blue Mass". Oakland North. 2014-10-14. Retrieved 26 December 2014.
  3. ^ 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.
  4. ^ Wuerl, Donald (2014-05-14). "With Prayers and Gratitude: The Blue Mass". Cardinal's Blog. Archdiocese of Washington. Retrieved 26 December 2014.
  5. ^ Long, Carolyn K. (2011-08-05). "What is a Blue Mass?". Angels Over America. Retrieved 26 December 2014.