Blue Mass 2016
"We do not need to wait until a disaster strikes to be grateful for the dedication of all of those whose life work is the protection of the public." - Bishop Robert Deeley
A large American flag, held in place atop Portland Fire Department ladder trucks, waved in the breeze over Franklin Street as the Maine Public Safety Pipe and Drum Corps filled the air with a stirring performance of “Amazing Grace.”
The indelible scene welcomed a gathering, including hundreds of local, state, and federal law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency personnel, to the 2016 Blue Mass, celebrated by Bishop Robert P. Deeley. Every pew of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception was filled with many standing in the back of the cathedral for the Mass.
The Blue Mass annually bestows blessings upon all who contribute to public safety and health in Maine and honors first responders for their heroic service.
Sunday’s Mass was particularly poignant as it was held on the 15th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, evoking memories of the many courageous men and women who ran towards danger to save their fellow man on that day.
“What happened on 9/11 reminded us that we are well-served by those who protect us and serve us. We do not need to wait until a disaster strikes to be grateful for the dedication of all of those whose life work is the protection of the public,” said Bishop Deeley. “In this Blue Mass, our purpose in being here is not only to thank you for your service to society, but also to thank God for your service, and to ask God’s blessing on each of you. May He protect you as you serve us.”
The events of September 11, 2001, served as the impetus for the Diocese of Portland to institute the Blue Mass, which is planned and organized by diocesan officials and representatives from local, county, and state public safety agencies. Bishop Deeley said that the good that stood amidst the evil that day must not be forgotten when communities and their relationships with law enforcement become strained.
“This year has presented serious challenges for those in law enforcement,” said the bishop. “Those challenges have even included violence and the murder of police officers. All the more does that make a gathering such as this more necessary. It is a reminder of the good that is done by those who help to keep order in our society. Our prayer, then, for the frayed corners of our society must be all the more fervent.”
Color guards, including a multi-jurisdictional honor guard, were on hand, as were people of different faiths. U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Portland Mayor Ethan Strimling, and Public Safety Commissioner John Morris were among the dignitaries in attendance.
Many of the Mass’ participants are also connected to the public safety community, including two of the deacons. Deacon Kevin Jacques has served as the chaplain for the Biddeford Fire and Police Departments and the Saco Fire Department for nearly two decades. Deacon Jeffrey Lewis, who is currently the chaplain for the Gardiner Fire Department, was an EMS provider for over 38 years and has served as a firefighter.
Lieutenant Frank Clark of the South Portland Police Department and Deputy Patrick Ferriter of the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Department served as readers. Representatives from Portland Police and the Maine State Police served as the gift bearers.
In this Holy Year of Mercy, declared by Pope Francis, believers are called to reflect on God’s gift of mercy. Bishop Deeley suggested to the hundreds in the assembly that one way to respond to that call is by seeking ways, large and small, to be a sign of hope for those we encounter each day.
“Start, I might suggest, by recognizing the enormous burden we place on those who protect and serve us, our first responders,” said the bishop. “In the midst of a fractured and divided society, they go about trying to keep order. We pray for them today, but it would also be good if we take the time in our daily activity to offer them a word of gratitude. So, the next time you pass a police officer or firefighter or game warden on the street, or you find yourself rushing to an appointment and get stopped for putting others in danger because of your excessive speed, thank the police officer for his or her service. At that moment, you are being protected. That is an act of mercy.”
