Blue Mass Honors Fallen Officers and Firefighters in New Jersey
In a touching ceremony, first responders from across New Jersey came together to pay tribute to their colleagues who made the ultimate sacrifice. The annual Blue Mass, held at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, provided an opportunity for the community to honor fallen heroes and offer support to their families.
Cardinal Joseph Tobin, the archbishop of Newark, officiated over the Mass, emphasizing its significance in recognizing the commitment and courage of law enforcement officers and firefighters. The Blue Mass is an opportunity for the Catholic community to thank officers, to pray for them, and to honor those who’ve gone before us in death, supporting in a special way their families, stated Tobin.
This year’s ceremony particularly highlighted the legacies of 12 fallen police officers and firefighters. Among them was Jacqueline Montanaro, a Customs and Border Protection officer who tragically lost her life while attempting to rescue her daughter from their burning home in Hazlet. The Mass also paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Capt. Augusto Acabou and Capt. Wayne Brooks, Jr., two Newark firefighters who lost their lives while battling a massive cargo ship fire at Port Newark.
For the attendees, the Blue Mass holds great sentimental value. Union County First Assistant Prosecutor Jim Tansey expressed his gratitude, stating, This is one of the greatest honors you can give someone. The Cardinal does a wonderful job, welcomes us here every year. It’s a very special thing to many of us.
The annual Blue Mass serves as a platform for families of the fallen to find solace and support. It’s support. We’re their pillar. We want to show that we’re their pillar during their time of struggle, knowing that we’re there to back them, shared Corrections Officer Raymond Ballester.
During the Mass, Cardinal Tobin highlighted the sacrifice made by first responders and their families, both past and present. This acknowledgment emphasizes the continued dedication of those who serve on the front lines and the importance of remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
The Blue Mass, deeply rooted in tradition, offers a sense of unity and commemoration to honor the brave men and women who have lost their lives in the line of duty. As the Mass concluded, the community stood together, forever grateful for the sacrifices made by these fallen officers and firefighters.
