By Andrew Winter
1.
Blue Masses honor police officers, paramedics, firefighters, and other first responders. The Blue Mass began in Washington D.C. in 1934, and now has spread across the country. It is commonly an annual event, celebrated by the local bishop when possible.
2.
At a Blue Mass, the names of personnel who have recently died in the line of duty are usually read, so the faithful may pray for them and their families. The homily and prayers of the faithful focus on the importance of law enforcement and emergency services. Often included in a Blue Mass is an emergency vehicle procession, where the bishop blesses each vehicle as it passes by.
3.
The tradition of the Blue Mass in the Lincoln Diocese began with Bishop James Conley in 2013. Since then it has taken place every year, and is hosted by the Knights of Columbus. This year, it will be celebrated at 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11, in the Cathedral of the Risen Christ. Vicar General Father Brian Kane will be the celebrant. He will also bless and distribute prayer coins: St. Michael for law enforcement and St. Florian for firefighters.
4.
Red Masses honor lawyers, judges, law students, and all other legal professionals.
5.
The Red Mass is believed to have begun in Paris in 1245. It was initially celebrated to mark the beginning of the annual judicial term. From France, the tradition of the Red Mass spread across Europe and finally to the United States.
6.
White Masses honor medical professionals. As with the Blue and Red Masses, attendees need not be Catholic. The purpose of the White Mass is to create a place where medical personnel can come together to meet, pray, and feel the support of the larger Church.
7.
The Catholic Medical Association, formed in the 1930s, established the White Mass. It is the nation’s largest network of Catholic medical professionals. The Association has bases in Lincoln and Omaha.
8.
Blue stands for the traditional color of police uniforms. Red imitates the red robes of the Medieval English Supreme Court justices, and symbolizes the tongues of fire at Pentecost. White reminds us of the white coats and uniforms traditionally worn by doctors and nurses.
9.
St. Michael, patron of first responders, is the patron of the Blue Mass. St. Thomas More, a lawyer and the patron saint of lawyers, is the patron of the Red Mass. St. Luke, who was himself a doctor, is the patron of the White Mass.
