Austin Prep Blue Mass Honors First Responders

Representatives from Reading Police and Fire, as well as emergency medical technicians, turned out for Austin Preparatory School’s 2nd Annual Blue Mass on Friday, December 8.

The Reading school hosts the Mass in gratitude for all those who put their lives on the line for others, said the school’s headmaster, Dr. James Hickey of Andover.

“Today we honor the dedication, heroism and sacrifice of the men and women here today and those who are not here today,” Dr. Hickey said. “It takes a special kind of person to do their work.”

Austin Prep parents who are first responders were also on hand for the Mass, which was held on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. The school chaplain, Fr. Patrick Armano of Reading, drew a parallel between the work of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the work of first responders.

“Mary understood that her mission was to live for others,” Fr. Armano said. “This is the same as our first responders. We’re reminded how important it is to respond to them with our gratitude.”

After Mass, Fr. Armano blessed the emergency vehicles in the school parking lot and gave a special blessing to the first responders.

Following the Mass, first responders enjoyed a full breakfast prepared by the school’s dining service