LEWISTON – The third annual Blue Mass honoring Maine’s law enforcement, fire and emergency medical service personnel will take place at 10 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 16, at the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.

Bishop Richard J. Malone will give thanks to and bestow his blessings upon those who contribute to the public health and safety. Emergency personnel from across the state have been invited to attend.

Members of these public safety agencies will attend the Mass in uniform, color guards will be on hand and the Maine Public Safety Pipe and Drum Corps will perform on the steps outside the basilica directly after the Mass.

The Blue Mass is held on the Sunday nearest to Sept. 11 in order to remember all the emergency personnel who sacrificed so much on 9/11, but most especially to thank those who serve us every day.

Family members and the general public are invited to attend this celebratory event which will be followed by a reception in the lower level of Saints Peter and Paul.

The basilica is at the corner of Ash and Bartlett streets.