Diocese of Portland’s annual Blue Mass to recognize those who protect and serve

Active and retired local, state, and federal law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency personnel will be recognized for their faithful commitment and self-sacrifice at the Blue Mass this Sunday, September 29 at 10:30 a.m. at the Basilica of Ss. Peter & Paul in Lewiston. The Mass will be celebrated by Bishop James T. Ruggieri and concelebrated by Father Daniel Greenleaf, pastor of Prince of Peace Parish.

People of all faiths are invited to attend the Mass and to join in expressing gratitude to the men and women who work to keep communities safe. Members of the public safety and first responder communities are encouraged to attend in uniform and to bring their families.

During the Mass, 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. The readers and gift bearers at the Mass will be members of the public safety community, and a multi-jurisdictional honor guard will post the colors.  The Maine State Police Pipe and Drum Unit will participate, and the Lewiston and Auburn fire departments will raise flags in front of the basilica. 

The Blue Mass (referring to the blue uniforms that law enforcement and other first responders often wear) dates to 1934 and is a venerable tradition in many dioceses. The events of September 11, 2001, served as the impetus for the Diocese of Portland to institute the Blue Mass in Maine. This year’s Blue Mass is ahead of the one-year anniversary of the 2023 Lewiston shootings that left 18 people dead, 13 injured and a community changed forever.

The Basilica of Ss. Peter and Paul is located at 122 Ash Street in Lewiston. A reception in the lower level will follow the Mass.