SINCE 2015, ST. MARTIN de Porres parish in Yorba Linda has celebrated the Blue Mass in honor of current First Responders, those who have died in the line of duty and retirees from the field.
Nine total Blue Masses have been held, with the pandemic forcing one to be cancelled. This year’s Blue Mass, which was celebrated on May 24, honored representatives from the city of Yorba Linda’s police and fire departments, 911 operators, EMS and probation department personnel. Additionally, members of the Orange County Sheriff ‘s Department, the California Highway Patrol, the District Attorney’s Office, representatives from the Coast Guard and various local government officials attended the Mass to offer their support. The parish faithful were also in attendance.
FOLLOWING THE MAY 24 MASS, PUBLIC SAFETY VEHICLES WERE BLESSED, INCLUDING A FIRE TRUCK. PHOTOS BY STEVEN GEORGES/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
While he was pastor of St. Martin de Porres, Fr. Sy Nguyen teamed with Deacon Denis Zaun to create this memorable event.
“We felt it was important to honor and acknowledge deceased, current and retired First Responders,” said Deacon Denis. “It is a great opportunity for our parishioners to gather and honor those who serve others.”
The history of the Blue Mass dates back to 1934, when police officers gathered to pray for their fallen comrades and ask for God’s blessing for their safety. The original Blue Masses were held on or around Sept. 29, which is the feast day of St. Michael the Archangel, protector of those in danger. For St. Martin de Porres parish, Memorial Day Weekend was chosen for its traditional honoring of those who have served our country. Deacon Denis also pointed out that May was initially chosen to coincide with several emergency service commemorations, such as Firefighters’ Day, Police Week and Public Service Recognition Week. History says the Mass was dubbed “Blue” due to the blue-colored uniforms predominantly worn by those employed in the safety field.
Fr. Bruce Patterson, pastor of St. Martin de Porres, celebrated this year’s Mass.
ST. MARTIN DE PORRES PARISH CELEBRATED THE BLUE MASS IN HONOR OF FIRST RESPONDERS.
“The annual Blue Mass at St. Martin de Porres has become a beloved tradition here and allows us the opportunity to thank and bless all those who serve and protect us,” said. Fr. Bruce.
THE BLUE MASS HONORS CURRENT FIRST RESPONDERS, THOSE WHO HAVE DIED IN THE LINE OF DUTY AND RETIREES FROM THE FIELD.
Current First Responders, some in uniform and some in civilian clothes, served as lectors, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion and hospitality ministers during Mass. Following the service, the congregation proceeded to a designated spot in the parking lot to bless approximately 12 vehicles, which included ambulances, police vehicles and a fire truck. The blessing of the fire truck was a particularly impactful moment on Memorial Day weekend, with the ladder raised and the American flag blowing in the breeze. This significant celebration culminated with a reception in the parish’s Gathering Plaza.
The event was a perfect way for the devoted St. Martin de Porres family to kick off their Memorial Day weekend, offering thanks and blessings to all those who live a service-filled life.