Students, Police, First Responders Take Part In Special Mass

DULUTH, Minn. — Stella Maris students from kindergarten to seniors in high school were not in class Wednesday, instead, they were in church that morning along with Duluth Police Officers, Minnesota State Troopers, and other first responders. All of them were at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary for a special Mass.

The Mass is known as the Blue Mass. It’s been a tradition across the United States since it first began in 1934 in Washington, DC.

The President of Stella Maris, Andrew Hilliker said this church service is a continuation of what the school’s mission is and is important for the students. “Part of our mission is lead, love and serve and informing our kids to do so and I don’t know that there’s a better or more perfect profession that we get to celebrate with them. Police officers, they’re really emblematic of who we are and what we’re trying to do. So, it’s been a great day,” said Hilliker.

The dozens of officers, troopers, and firefighters who were at the Mass love the opportunity to meet the students, teachers, and the community members who attend. For some officers, they try to attend the Blue Mass each year.

“It’s actually very humbling to come to church and see how much support we have from the community, community members, and then from the students and teachers prepare the Mass for us,” said Lt. Ken Zwak, Duluth Police Department.

Following the Mass, the entire congregation made their way across the street to where the patrol cars were parked. Catholic Bishop David Felton then blessed the cars and the officers.

For the students, it was then time to enjoy lunch and play by the lake.