Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

A significant gathering took place at St. James Cathedral in Orlando on September 30, 2024, as first responders were honored during the annual Blue Mass. The event saw a large turnout of blue and green uniforms filling a third of the cathedral, while hundreds of attendees gathered to show their support and gratitude for these everyday heroes.

The ceremony was marked by traditional elements such as an American flag displayed from two fire trucks, participation from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Patrol Unit, a multi-service honor guard, and music from the Central Florida First Responders Pipes and Drums. Bishop John Noonan led the Mass, expressing appreciation for the first responders' dedication. "Amid our natural disasters and crime scenes you go about keeping our communities safe," he said. "We pray for you today, grateful for your service, and ask God to bless you."

In attendance were 500 students from 16 Catholic schools within the diocese who surrounded the first responders in a gesture of respect. Erika Wikstrom, Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Orlando, shared her sentiments: “It was a beautiful testament to our unity in faith and our shared commitment to honoring the brave men and women who serve as first responders.”

Wikstrom emphasized that this experience allows students to witness values central to their faith. “My hope is that they left the Mass with a deeper understanding of the call to serve others,” she said.

The Blue Mass also serves as a moment to remember those who have fallen in service. Among them was Lt. Jeffrey Huggins from Orlando Fire Department whose mother Captain Mary Huggins coordinates this annual event. She reflected on her son’s life: “Jeff was such a good man... He was out there fighting fires and saving lives his entire life.”

Others remembered included Major Cornel Young Sr., who passed away last year, along with his son Sgt. Cornel Young Jr., who died 24 years ago.

Several law enforcement officers attended with their families including Sgt. David Flores formerly of New York Police Department now serving Hillsborough County schools; he expressed gratitude saying: “It’s amazing to come and be in front of God.”

His son David echoed these feelings noting pride seeing his father recognized: “He’s like a superhero at home... It’s very exciting.”