Last year was the first diocesan Blue Mass to celebrate first responders. (File Photo)

Bishop Richard J. Malone will be the main celebrant at a special Mass on Saturday, October 15 at 4:30 pm, to honor first responders of all faiths who live and work in the Diocese of Buffalo.  In 2015, Bishop Malone said the first Blue Mass in the diocese and has decided to make this an annual Mass. 

During the Mass to be held at St. Joseph Cathedral, Bishop Malone will bestow blessings upon all who contribute to public health and safety in the diocese.  Deacon Dan Golinski, technical sergeant and communications supervisor for the New York State Police, will be the homilist. 

The Greater Buffalo Firefighters Pipe & Drum will provide a portion of the music for the Mass and representatives from the Buffalo Police Department, Sheriff's Office and the Buffalo Fire Department will serve as lectors and gift bearers.

In addition, there will be a multi-jurisdictional honor guard and two representatives from the Sheriff's Office will be outside the cathedral on horseback.

All are welcome to attend, paid and volunteer staff, families and friends.

The Blue Mass, referring to the blue uniforms worn by so many public safety personnel, dates back to 1934 and is a venerable tradition in many dioceses. In the Diocese of Buffalo, many Catholics serve in crucial posts protecting the various communities. This Mass is an opportunity for greater awareness of, and gratitude for, the lives of those who serve so faithfully.