September 16, 2009

Blue Mass honors law enforcement

On the day following the eighth anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York City, Shanksville, Pa., and on the Pentagon just outside Washington, faithful gathered at the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Denver for the annual Blue Mass.  Denver Auxiliary Bishop James D. Conley D.D. S.T.L. was the main celebrant of the afternoon liturgy. 

More than 200 first responders attended the Mass in uniform, according John Miller, associate director for the Office of Liturgy.

“This was easily the largest turnout we’ve had for the Blue Mass since it began here in the Archdiocese of Denver,” he said.

During his homily, Bishop Conley praised the men and women in uniform and said that he saluted them all.

“We lift you up in prayer and the many you represent,” he said, “the tens of thousands of men and women across our nation and beyond who consistently and unselfishly choose, in public service, to sacrifice self for the good of others, whatever the cost.”