The Diocese of Metuchen held its 15th annual Blue Mass at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi. The Mass honored law enforcement from four New Jersey counties.
METUCHEN -- Law enforcement from four New Jersey counties gathered at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi in Metuchen to honor their fellow officers during the diocese's 15th annual Blue Mass.
Bishop James F. Crecchio was the principal celebrant of the Mass, which honors all active, retired and deceased law enforcement personnel from the four counties serviced by the diocese -- Middlesex, Hunterdon, Somerset and Warren.
"We owe a great deal of support and gratitude to the law enforcement personnel who work in our diocese, particularly given the current climate under which they serve," said Bishop Checchio. "Their daily work, rooted at the intersection of justice and mercy, calls them to cultivate peace in the midst of conflict and lead with love, and for this work, we are most grateful."
"The Blue Mass is a wonderful opportunity for people in our diocese to offer thanks to God for our dedicated law enforcement personnel and to recognize the sacrifices they and their families make," the bishop continued. "It is a good time, too, to recommit ourselves to encouraging peace in our communities and continuing the mission of Christ Himself."
Along with remembering fallen officers from the past, the diocese payed a special tribute to Carteret Police Department's Sgt. Lawrence Craig, 59, who died while on duty in August 2016.
The host agency for this year's Mass was the Hillsborough Township Police Department. Under the direction of Chief Darren Powell, members of his police department served as the main honor guard.
"I am honored that Hillsborough Township Police Department will be the host agency for this year's event," said Chief Powell. "The annual Blue Mass reminds us of the everyday sacrifices made by those who serve and protect our communities and it nurtures the fraternal bond among members of law enforcement who work together, side by side, in this most noble profession."
The Mass included Somerset County Police Pipes and Drums, TAPS and a 21 gun salute.
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