"Support your local police” is a slogan often seen on billboards, tee shirts and even lawn signs.
With its upcoming Blue Mass, the Diocese of Trenton is inviting the Catholic faithful and all people of good will to do just that . . . support their police by remembering them in prayer, standing with them in worship and thanking them for all that they do to keep our communities safe.
The 19th annual Blue Mass – a Celebration of Law Enforcement – will take place April 17, beginning at 10:30 a.m. in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton. Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., will serve as principal celebrant and homilist for the Mass, and will ask God’s protection for law enforcement personnel in the four counties of the Diocese and around the state. As many as a dozen diocesan priests are expected to concelebrate.
Speaking in the weeks leading up to the Mass, several law enforcement officers shared the central place that their faith holds in their lives and the role that it has played in their professions.
Lieutenant Patrick Brady, who had served for a decade in the New Jersey State Police’s Fatal Accident Investigation Unit, and now is a traffic officer with the department, acknowledged, “During my tenure, I responded to nearly 300 serious or fatal motor vehicle crashes. I experienced several heartbreaking stories while interviewing victims, witnesses and suspects.
“I do my best to listen, express empathy, and help them through the pain,” the lifelong Catholic stated, adding, “Several of these cases live on in my mind. My family, my faith, the solace of Church help me navigate the seas when they get rough.”
Chief Lance D. Maloney of the Hopewell Township Police Department also has relied heavily on his faith as he navigates through his responsibilities in service to the community. He stated, “I am comfortable that God is with me in whatever situation.” When faced with crises, he admits, “I am comfortable that I will act morally and things will work out.”
Expressing appreciation for the Blue Mass, Chief Maloney stated, “Even if you are not Catholic, it is a great opportunity for the officers to see the people supporting law enforcement.” He added, “It’s great that they do this. We are welcomed and recognized for our chosen careers.”
Coordinated by a committee of law enforcement representatives, among others, the diocesan-sponsored event is held to offer thanks to God for the dedication and sacrifice made by women and men in law enforcement as well as their families and communities. The Mass will include participation by law enforcement representatives who will read Scripture, offer petitions and lead the congregation in song. Bagpipers, fife and drum legions, color guard members and others will also be featured.
The student choir from Trenton Catholic Academy in Hamilton will lead the music, and students from Notre Dame High School in Lawrenceville will serve at the Mass.
Luncheon will follow in the lower hall of the Cathedral. Luncheon tickets are $20 per person and free to immediate family members. To order tickets, mail checks made payable to: Diocese of Trenton – Blue Mass, Attn: Jennifer Britton, 701 Lawrenceville Road, P.O. Box 5147, Trenton, N.J. 086380147. The Cathedral is located at 151 N. Warren Street, Trenton.
For more information, visit
www.bluemass.org or contact Jennifer Britton, communications assistant, at 609-403-7199.