“Support your local police” is a slogan often seen on billboards, T-shirts and even lawn signs.
During its 20th annual Mass and Celebration of Law Enforcement, also known as the Blue Mass, the Diocese of Trenton is inviting the Catholic faithful and all people of good will to do just that – support their police officers, detectives, security officials and others by remembering them in prayer, standing with them in worship and thanking them for all they do to keep communities safe.
The annual Mass will take place at 10:30 a.m., April 30, in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, 151 N. Warren St., Trenton. Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., will serve as principal celebrant and homilist for the Mass.
Coordinated by a committee of law enforcement representatives and others, the diocesan-sponsored event is held to offer thanks to God for the dedication and sacrifice made by men and women in law enforcement, as well as their families and communities. The Mass will include participation by law enforcement representatives who will proclaim the Readings, participate in the presentation of the gifts and lead the congregation in song. Bagpipers, fife and drum legions, color guard members and others will also be featured. The Mass will be followed by a luncheon in the lower church hall.
A luncheon donation of $20 per person is requested. Immediate families of law enforcement personnel are included at no cost. Reservations are required by April 23. To order lunch tickets, submit checks made payable to Diocese of Trenton-Blue Mass, Attn: Anna Pedreiro, 701 Lawrenceville Road, P.O. Box 5147, Trenton, NJ 08638-0147. Tickets may also be obtained at the door on April 30.
For more information, visit www.bluemass.org or contact Anna Pedreiro, communications assistant, at (609) 403-7199; apedre@dioceseoftrenton.org.