Blue Mass to honor first responders

Bishop Walker Nickless and the Sioux City Cathedral Parish are hosting a Blue Mass at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 17 at the Cathedral of the Epiphany in Sioux City, 1000 Douglas Street. The Mass includes a procession of uniformed first responders. Father David Esquiliano, rector of the Cathedral, pointed out that the first responders will be prayed for during the Mass.

The tradition of a Blue Mass has origins dating to 1934 “when police officers gathered to pray for their fallen comrades and seek God’s blessing for their own safety,” according to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. “The name ‘Blue Mass’ comes from the traditional color of many officers’ uniforms.”

Area first responders and those working in the emergency response fields (including law enforcement, fire, EMTs and others) and their families are encouraged to attend this Mass at the Cathedral. 

Organizers are hopeful that those working as first responders in every discipline will feel comfortable attending the Mass, whether they are Catholic or not.

“We wish to emphasize that the Blue Mass warmly embraces individuals of all faiths, extending its invitation to Catholics and non-Catholics alike. It symbolizes our community's unity, respect and heartfelt gratitude for their selfless service,” Father Esquiliano said.

First responders and their families planning to attend are asked to RSVP to [email protected]. However, anyone who arrives without an RSVP is welcome to attend the Mass and the meal afterward.