Law enforcement, firefighters and EMTs to be honored at special Mass

BISMARCK, N.D. (April 29, 2014) – The Bismarck Diocese will hold its third annual Blue Mass at 6 p.m. at Cathedral of the Holy Spirit on May 13.

The Blue Mass is an opportunity to honor the memory of those who have lost their lives in service for truth and justice. The Mass includes prayers for all active, retired and deceased law enforcement officers, firefighters and emergency medical personnel. A short video recap of the 2013 Blue Mass can be found at this link: https://vimeo.com/66855001.

“The service of all law enforcement workers—and particularly of those in western North Dakota—is motivated by a genuine and sincere love and respect for others,” Bishop of Bismarck David Kagan said. “Their work gives us a tremendous example and many of us, myself included, do not appreciate it enough. It’s important to show our gratitude to them, and all are welcome to join us at the Blue Mass to do so.”

“The Blue Mass is a wonderful way to offer thanks for the sacrifice and service to the communities provided by emergency responders at every level,” said Lonnie Grabowska, an ordained deacon in the Catholic Church who works in law enforcement. “It is also an opportunity for all public servants to honor and remember our fallen comrades who have died in the past year.”

The name for the special liturgy originated because of the color of the uniforms worn by law enforcement personnel and other emergency responders across the U.S. All are welcome to attend and join in prayers of gratitude for the sacrifices made by individuals in these professions.

For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact Bismarck Diocese Director of Communications Matthew Kurtz: [email protected], 701-204-7190.