Blue Mass honors first responders

John Nobile

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First responders attend the Blue Mass at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church.Courtesy photo/John Nobile

By BL Smith

Special to the Intermountain Catholic

DRAPER — On Feb. 16, more than 100 police officers, firefighters and their families attended Mass at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church to commemorate and recognize public safety employees.

During the homily, Father Denis Riley, the parochial vicar, singled out Draper City Police Sgt. Derrick Johnson, who was murdered last September; and Utah County Sheriff Sgt. Cory Wride, who was murdered Jan. 30.

"But certainly, the most heroic acts of courage are done by those who on a regular basis put their lives at risk while trying to protect others," Fr. Riley said. "To this end, let it be as a grateful community that we make a habit of praying for courageous men and women, especially those who have died or who have been wounded while performing their duty. Our indebtedness and support should also extend to the spouses, children, parents or anyone who worries about their safe return home."

Members of various religions attended the Mass for a common goal, that of recognizing the sacrifice that first responders in public safety put on the line every time they head off to work. We shouldn’t say work, because it is a calling. In my 44 years in law enforcement I see that calling in the eyes of that person. It isn’t a job; it is a way of life. It is who they are.

Before the Mass, during it, and afterward at the breakfast hosted by the Knights of Columbus, you could see it in the eyes of these police and fire first responders: appreciation. They were able to wear their uniforms, bring their families, smile and acknowledge each other.

At the breakfast they were able to socialize in uniform with one another. They smiled. When I say "they" I mean not only the first responders but their families as well. The whole family was welcomed and acknowledged for their sacrifice.

I saw several "retired" personnel attending as well. Like military war veterans, you are never gone. There is always that bond. It wasn’t just the first responders who were moved by this outpouring of love. Several of my fellow parishioners recognized that this Mass was especially special. One happened to not only be a fellow parishioner but a neighbor. He told me he had not expected the Blue Mass, but it held a very special significance. Two weeks prior to the Mass he had buried his son, who had retired from the Department of Corrections.

It was then that I put two and two together with his last name and was able to tell him that I knew his son. I had not worked with him, but knew him by association. I was able to tell him that his son had an excellent reputation as an investigator.

The next Blue Mass is scheduled for President’s Day weekend in 2015.

BL Smith is the POST Region III Training Coordinator & Utah Peace Officer Association Region A Representative.