-News Release-

The Blue Mass has been celebrated annually for the past 12 years. All active, retired and deceased law enforcement officials from Middlesex, Hunterdon, Somerset and Warren are honored. All are welcome.

METUCHEN – Bishop Paul G. Bootkoski will serve as principal celebrant of the Diocese of Metuchen’s 12th annual Blue Mass to be held at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, on Wednesday, October 16 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome.

The Mass honors all active, retired and deceased law enforcement officials from Middlesex, Hunterdon, Somerset and Warren, the four counties served by the diocese. Federal, state, county and local police, sheriff and corrections departments along with members of the Port Authority Police Department are invited to participate in the Blue Mass.

“Each year, as we gather together in prayer and fellowship at our annual Blue Mass, it provides an opportunity for citizens of the diocese to acknowledge and give thanks for the many contributions of all those involved in law enforcement,” said Bishop Bootkoski. “It’s a chance for us to remind them that we respect the work they do and that we appreciate their selfless dedication and commitment to keeping our local towns and communities safe.”

Readington Police Department, under the direction of Chief Sebastian Donaruma, this year will serve as the host department with assistance of all Hunterdon County law enforcement.

Members of the host department will serve as the main honor guard in the pre-liturgy ceremony and will participate during the Mass as cross and candle bearers, readers and gift bearers.

Hunterdon County Prosecutor Anthony P. Kearns, III, who has been a member of the Blue Mass planning committee for the past three years, said he is pleased with the involvement of Hunterdon County law enforcement in the annual diocesan liturgy as well as the opportunity to thank them for their work.

“I am honored to be able to express my gratitude to all those who serve and protect our communities and look forward to being present once again to show support for the many dedicated men and women in Hunterdon County law enforcement, especially as they take a leading role this year,” said Kearns.

The Mass will include a 21-gun salute and after the Mass there will be a flyover by a State Police aircraft as Bishop Bootkoski blesses and reviews the officers. A lunch reception will follow immediately afterward in the community room beneath the church.

For more information, visit www.diometuchen.org/2013-blue-mass/ or call (732) 562-2463.