OLEAN, N.Y. — The Olean Catholic Community will celebrate a “Blue Mass” at the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday.

This Mass is an opportunity for the community to honor local EMS, fire and law enforcement personnel of all faiths who live and work in the region. Chaplains for both the Olean Fire Fighters and Olean Police welcome area first responders, paid and volunteer staff, families and friends, to attend this special Mass to honor and thank these men and women for their service to the common good and pray for their continued safety.

Celebrants at the Mass will be Rev. Gregory Dobson, VF,  Rector of the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels who is the Olean Police Chaplain and the Rev. Patrick Melfi, Pastor of St. John’s Church who is the Olean Fire Fighters’ Chaplain. They will bestow blessings upon all first responders who contribute to public health and safety in the region.