Pomp, Pageantry and Prayer: Diocese celebrates law enforcement at annual Blue Mass

Looking across a sea of blue-clad law enforcement personnel seated before him Oct. 30 in the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, Bishop James F. Checchio spoke for the hundreds of indebted citizens also present, declaring, “It is a privilege and honor to gather here. We are grateful for all you do for peace and harmony in our communities.”

Those men and women who swore to keep that peace and harmony were lauded at the annual diocesan Blue Mass which honors active, retired and deceased law enforcement personnel serving in the four counties of the Metuchen Diocese. Local and state dignitaries, citizens and students sat shoulder to shoulder in the pews; representatives of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, this year’s host agency, served as honor guard members, readers and gift bearers at the liturgy.

Small-town Metuchen was transformed into a major law enforcement hub that warm autumn morning: a long row of police motorcycles lined Main Street in front of the Cathedral, while scores of police cars added their swirling red and blue lights alongside a fire truck which suspended a colossal American flag fluttering in the breeze. An honor guard assembled on the plaza, then marched into the Cathedral, followed closely by tartan-clad musicians of the Middlesex County Police and Fire Pipes and Drums.

Bishop Checchio served as principal celebrant of the Mass and was accompanied at the altar by priests of the Diocese who serve as police department chaplains. Father Jason Pavich, pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Whitehouse Station, and the son of a former police chief in South Amboy, served as homilist.

“As we gather on this sacred morning, those in law enforcement, in whatever roles [you] play, the Church prays that you in your service and dedication show us the Father,” said Father Pavich, “and that in your courageous daily witness you reveal truth, mercy, commitment and a love of service that never fails.”

Admitting their profession is a “great challenge”, nonetheless, he advised them there were three places they might turn for help.

“First is each other,” Father Pavich began. “You are not alone. Always turn to one another. Second, look at all the people in the back [pews of the Cathedral]: your family, friends and community. Be a sign of God’s justice in the world. Pray each day for all who paid the ultimate sacrifice, and their widows and orphans. Pray for steadfastness, humility and respect.”

The priest said, “Third, pray to God, turn everything over to God. The God of justice feeds us with his very self. Be courageous. Bring his justice and his mercy into a world that so desires it.”

Father Pavich concluded, “What a grace, what an honor we have to pray for you this morning. May your prayers support you daily. Through the intercession of St. Michael, may you show our world who our Father is.”

At the conclusion of the Mass, Sgt. Michael Grosso led the assemblage in the Police Officers Prayer which beseeches St. Michael for “protection from all mental, physical and spiritual harm [and] be courageous and not reckless in carrying out my duties.” A golden statuette of the warrior archangel were presented to the families of four law enforcement personnel who gave their lives since last year’s celebration.

Somerset County Sheriff Darrin Russo read the names of the officers who had died in the line of duty since the inception of the diocesan Blue Mass as Watchung Police Chief Scott Anderle tolled a bell in solemn reminder of the sacrifice. The drums and bagpipes played their sonorous rendition of “Amazing Grace,” followed by the traditional 21-gun salute and bugler’s “Taps.”

Following the liturgy, Bishop Checchio surveyed the troops which lined the street and plaza, sprinkling them with holy water as a law enforcement helicopter buzzed the Cathedral. Det. Michael Harris of the Woodbridge Police Dept., who served as a Blue Mass Committee member and emcee for the Mass, shared his thoughts on the auspicious event.

“Regardless of your faith or religious beliefs, the annual Blue Mass held by the Diocese of Metuchen is a necessary reminder of the unwavering support that we receive from the people that we are happy to serve,” he said. “It’s the one day out of the year that puts the Police Officers first - even if just for a few moments. Between the presence of the Bishop, the always enlightening Homily, the relatable readings or those chilling bagpipes ringing throughout the Cathedral, the Blue Mass is an incredible experience that we always look forward to.”

Students and staff from numerous Catholic schools in the Diocese were present to show their support of their brothers and sisters in Christ serving in law enforcement, including youngsters from adjoining St. Francis Cathedral School. Its principal, Dr. Jay Locquiao, explained the motivation behind their presence.

“The diocesan Blue Mass is a profound experience where we give thanksgiving and honor to those who serve our communities. Year after year, our school has the privilege of witnessing, meeting and being with the men and women who protect us and honoring those who gave their lives for others. This annual event is a great reminder to our students, families, and staff members of the sacrifices our officers and their families make for us and how Jesus, in giving his life for our sake, does the same. The Christian heroism of our police officers witnesses to our community what Jesus desires of us: to protect one another, care for one another, and lay down our lives for the sake of the common good,” he said.

Representatives from St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Edison, also shared what prompted their attendance. Senior Jack Valenzuela said, “I think it’s important to honor those who serve us every day and put their lives on the line. It was also nice to see some police officers that I know be honored for their service.” 

STAHS Associate Principal Mark Fiore added, “As a school community, we feel that it’s important to stand behind those who risk their lives every day to keep us safe. Many of our parents and alumni serve in law enforcement, and we’re proud to honor their courage and dedication.”