The 25th Silver Anniversary 9/11 Blue Mass and Ringing of the Bell Ceremony was held at Saint Isaac Jogues Parish. The event honored the profound sacrifices and vital work of law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. Jointly sponsored by Saint Isaac Jogues Parish and the Saint Isaac Jogues Knights of Columbus Council 13716, this solemn event served as a beautiful, continuous remembrance on the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. Reverend Monsignor Albin J. Grous, the Pastor of Saint Isaac Jogues, served as the celebrant and homilist for the Mass for the Preservation of Peace and Justice. The event drew a distinguished group of State, County, and Local Officials, including State Representative Melissa Shusterman, County Commissioner Marion Moskowicz, District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe, and Coroner Sophia Garcia-Jackson. Reverend Scott Dorsey, Chaplain of the Tredyffrin Police Department, also participated and delivered the closing prayer.
The event honored first responders through a solemn mass, powerful visual tributes, and official civic recognition. Following the mass, a moving Ringing of the Bell Ceremony took place, where a historic fire truck bell tapped out the traditional “Four Fives” signal to honor fallen heroes. Outside the parish, Radnor Fire Company Quint 15 and Paoli Fire Company Tower 3 created a dramatic ladder arch. A large banner American flag was prominently displayed from this arch, serving as a powerful visual tribute. To mark the occasion, the County and the State Representative presented official commendations to thank active and fallen first responders, while formally recognizing the significance of the Blue Mass itself.
This year’s service focused deeply on prayer for the community. Attendees specifically remembered and prayed for fallen Chester County First Responders, as well as the daily sacrifices made by active personnel and their families. Various local elected officials and members of the judiciary stood in solidarity, notably including Federal Court Judge the Honorable John Murphy and Chester County Court of Common Pleas Judge the Honorable Analisa Sondergaard.
These strong community ties were highlighted by the marked attendance and active participation of the following local departments:
- Tredyffrin Police Department
- Radnor Fire Department
- Berwyn Fire Department
- Paoli Fire Department
- Phoenixville Fire Department
There is strength in our Union. The 9/11 Blue Mass and Ringing of the Bell Ceremony is a powerful testament to the necessary work and sacrifices of our First Responders and the enduring strength of our community in supporting those who keep us safe. By bringing together civic leaders, first responders, and families in a unified circle of prayer and gratitude, the Blue Mass reminds us that the safety and freedom we enjoy daily are bought with a price. On the 25th Anniversary of 9/11, the leaders of our community and the residents of Chester County renewed a sacred promise: to always stand behind those who run toward danger, to support the families who share in their sacrifices, and to ensure that the legacy of our fallen heroes is never forgotten.
