4 Riverside Avenue in Riverside
BRIDGEPORT—The 2021 Diocesan Blue Mass honoring fire, police and rescue workers and commemorating the 20th Anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks will be held on Sunday, September 19, 10:30 am at The Parish of St. Catherine of Siena and St. Agnes, 4 Riverside Avenue in Riverside.
Law enforcement, fire and emergency medical service personnel of all faiths in Fairfield County are invited to attend the Mass along with faithful throughout the diocese.
Msgr. Thomas V. Powers, vicar general of the diocese, will be the celebrant along with Father William Platt, pastor of St. Catherine of Siena and St. Agnes Parish. Police, fire and EMT chaplains serving in towns and cities throughout the diocese will also be in attendance.
“The annual Blue Mass is a special moment to honor the bravery, courage and service of our first responders,” said Bishop Frank J. Caggiano, who is unable to attend this year because of a long-standing previous commitment. “Every time they respond with duty and honor, they bring hope and healing. Once again, after nearly two years of the COVID-19 crisis we are indebted to these men and women whom we honor as hidden ambassadors of Jesus Christ. May He always protect them.”
The Blue Mass has grown into a moving and memorable commemoration of the vigilance and witness of the uniformed personnel who protect the health and safety of people every day of the year in Fairfield County.
The Fairfield County councils and assemblies of the Knights of Columbus are sponsoring the Mass again this year. Greenwich Chief of Police Jim Heavey is helping to coordinate this year’s event.
The Blue Mass takes its name from the blue uniforms worn by police, fire and emergency services personnel. Founded by Bishop William E. Lori, the Blue Mass was initiated to celebrate the life and heroism of those who died during the 9-11 terrorist attacks in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington D. C. Each year it also recognizes local First Responders.
Because of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, there will be no reception this year.