A Blue Mass at IHM to Commemorate First Responders at 9/11

On Friday, September 18, Immaculate Heart of Mary School came together for a special Blue Mass commemorating the 25th anniversary of September 11th and honoring the courage, sacrifice, and service of first responders.

Police officers, firefighters, first responders, parents, parishioners, and members of the community joined IHM students for this special celebration. Fr. Stephen Ries celebrated the Mass, joined by two concelebrating priests. The altar was draped in blue, and the priests wore blue vestments in recognition of the occasion.

As part of the commemoration, IHM students and families also raised over $4,000 for Answer the Call, an organization that provides financial assistance and support to the families of New York City police officers and firefighters who have been killed in the line of duty.

The initiative gave students an opportunity not only to learn about and remember the events of September 11th, but also to put that remembrance into action through service to others.

Twenty-five years later, the IHM community continues to remember those who were lost, honor the heroes who answered the call, and teach the next generation the importance of service, sacrifice, gratitude, and community.

IHM was honored to welcome so many first responders and community members for this meaningful celebration.