ATLANTA—The Archdiocese of Atlanta will have its first Blue Mass for all public safety officials and first responders on Friday, Sept. 11, at the Cathedral of Christ the King, 2699 Peachtree Road, NE, Atlanta. Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory will be the celebrant of the Mass, which begins at 10:30 a.m. It is intended to become an annual Mass in the archdiocese.

The Mass will include a blessing of badges. A reception will follow Mass in Kenny Hall.

All are invited to attend the Mass to pray and show appreciation for those who serve and protect the public.

In the United States, the Blue Mass tradition began in 1934. Father Thomas Dade of the Archdiocese of Baltimore formed the Catholic Police and Fireman’s Society that year and celebrated the first Blue Mass for police officers and firemen.