PORTLAND — Hundreds of 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, celebrated by Bishop Robert Deeley, on Sunday, Sept. 18.
The 2022 Blue Mass will be held at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on 307 Congress Street in Portland starting at 10 a.m. People of all faiths are welcome to attend and join in showing our gratitude to these dedicated heroes. All active and retired members of the public safety community are encouraged to come with their families and in uniform.
Among the dignitaries joining the bishop to honor those who serve in this community will be U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, Gov. Janet Mills, former Gov. Paul LePage, former U.S. Rep. Bruce Poliquin, Public Safety Commissioner Michael Sauschuck, State Fire Marshal Joseph Thomas, and many others.
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. Ladder trucks from the Portland and South Portland Fire Departments will also display the American flag high above Franklin Street prior to the Mass. A reception, open to the public, will be held outside the Cathedral following the Mass.
The Blue Mass (referring to the blue uniforms that firefighters, law enforcement and other first responders wear) dates back to 1934 and is a venerable tradition in many dioceses. The events of Sept. 11, 2001, served as the impetus for the Diocese of Portland to institute the Blue Mass locally. For more information about the Blue Mass, including its history in Maine, visit www.portlanddiocese.org/BlueMass.