Across the United States, many citizens take up careers that put themselves in danger’s way to protect others, sometimes at the cost of their lives. These occupations range from firefighters who rescue people from burning buildings, police officers who uphold the law, EMS workers and ambulance corps who aid the sick and wounded, veterans and active duty members who fought overseas, and service orders like the Knights of Columbus who volunteer for their communities.

Walden residents showed their appreciation to these professions on Sunday, May 16 during Most Precious Blood Church’s annual Blue Mass, a Catholic tradition that commemorates first responders, military personnel, and veterans for everything they do for this country.

From 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., attendants participated in prayers, hymns led by Peter Mahoney, and communion. Father Tom Colucci, pastor of Most Sacred Blood Church who served 20 years in the New York City Fire Department, spoke throughout the ceremony and extended his appreciation to everyone who made sacrifices in their line of duty, whether they were still alive or deceased.

“Thank you for your dedicated service, commitment, and sacrifices that you’ve made. This special mass and reception are to honor you,” Colucci said. “For many of you in those professions, people take us for granted for doing that. But we don’t mind, we just do our job safely. But it’s good to have a special day and say thank you for all that you do for our communities and country.”

Colucci emphasized one word to define these individuals: fortitude, or one’s courage in the face of difficult situations, even if it means risking their own life for the greater good.

“It takes courage to put one’s life on the line or at least put themselves in danger or sacrifice for others. There is no greater love than laying down one’s life for another, which often happens in these professions,” Colucci continued. “All these professions respond to calls for help to stay or assist someone without the thought of their safety first, but only the concern to alleviate those that are in need. It takes a certain amount of fortitude to do this.”

Following the mass, the attendants climbed down the stairs to the church’s reception, where they enjoyed hearty meals, received professional photographs, and participated in a 50/50 raffle.