The community of St. Joseph Catholic Church, in St. Petersburg, celebrated a Blue Mass on Saturday, May 21st, to honor law enforcement officers and first responders.

A Blue Mass is celebrated annually by Catholic churches throughout the U.S. for those employed in the public safety field, including police officers, firefighters, correctional officers, 911 operators and EMS personnel. Blue symbolizes the color of uniforms predominantly used by these services. The Mass is an opportunity for the community to show gratitude to first responders and their families.

During the ceremony, the names of those from the St. Petersburg Police Department who were killed in the line of duty were read as a way to honor them.

“We always remember, and we don't forget the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice,” said Fr. Stephan Brown, Pastor of St. Joseph Parish.

The Mass was attended by officers and first responders from agencies across Pinellas County, and community members.