BANGOR — Active and retired local, state and federal law enforcement officers, firefighters and emergency personnel will be recognized for their commitment and self-sacrifice at the Blue Mass, celebrated by Bishop Robert P. Deeley, at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 10, at St. John Catholic Church, 217 York St. People of all faiths are welcome to attend.
Sen. Susan Collins, Rep. Bruce Poliquin, state senators and representatives, city councilors and other dignitaries will join the bishop in honoring those who serve. Blessings will be bestowed upon all who contribute to the public health and safety of Maine, and prayers will be offered for those who have given their lives in the line of duty.
All members of the public safety community are encouraged to attend the Blue Mass in uniform. The Mass is planned and organized by diocesan officials and representatives from local, county and state public safety agencies.
Color guards, including a multi-jurisdictional honor guard, will be on hand, as will ladder trucks displaying the American flag. The Maine Public Safety Pipe and Drum Corps, joined by members of the Maine State Police Pipe and Drum unit, will perform before and after the Mass. A reception will be held in the parish hall after the Mass.
The Blue Mass (referring to the blue uniforms that firefighters, law enforcement and other first responders wear) dates back to 1934. The events of Sept. 11, 2001, served as the impetus for the Diocese of Portland to institute the Blue Mass locally.
FMI: www.portlanddiocese.org/BlueMass2017.
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