Blue Mass held in Lewiston to support law enforcement and remember 9/11 - WGME
LEWISTON (WGME) -- Hundreds of local, state and federal first responders were recognized at the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul for their dedication and service as part of a Blue Mass.
“Each year we come together for this mass as a way to remember the tragedy and honor Sept. 11, 2001," Bishop Robert Deeley said during the mass. "We gather in thanks for the generosity of those that were the first responders. Those who rushed into falling buildings to try to save those that were trying to get out.”
The mass goes on every year, but attendees emphasized its importance this year compared to previous years.
"It's been discouraging hearing from those that want to defund the police," Senator (R-ME) Susan Collins, said. "I can’t imagine anything more harmful. It has affected the morale of law enforcement in this country, they’re having a difficult time recruiting."
The "defund the police" slogan was created during the George Floyd protests starting in May 2020. Deeley pointed out that recruitment only grew worse as COVID-19 cases went up, which he saw during the mass himself.
“Making arrangements for this mass today, for example, I was told that it might be hard to see large numbers of first responders to attend because they are stretched thin in keeping sufficient people on duty to maintain the safety of their communities," Deeley said.
Collins said she hopes a mass like the one held on Sept. 19 proves to law enforcement officers that their community supports what they do.
"It's important that we take time to express gratitude for those that put their lives on the line for us," Senator Collins said.
Lewiston Fire Department (LFD) hung an American Flag outside of the church as a symbol of support for standing with their community partners. LFD Lieutenant Carlos Ortiz said the police and fire department work as a great team, no matter how big or small the accident is.
"With police officers especially, they had a rough go with some of the defund police stuff," Ortiz said. "Their service is really needed and we appreciate them on the fire ground or at car accidents."
Both Ortiz and Collins said the mass shares one message to law enforcement officers they hope to get across.
"I want to make sure that they know that the vast majority of us are so thankful for their service," Senator Collins said.
"I know the vast majority of people support these kinds of services and police officers," Ortiz said.
source: https://wgme.com/news/local/blue-mass-held-to-stand-in-support-of-law-enforcement-and-to-remember-911
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