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Remembering our heroes

Kimberley A. Heatherington | For the Catholic Herald

Bishop Emeritus Paul S. Loverde (center) and Bishop Michael F. Burbidge (right) pose for a photo with Knights of Columbus David Todd, Jr., State Deputy Pat Rowland, State Treasurer Bob Jones, State Secretary Trey Hart and Grand Knight Nelson Clinch following the Mass Honoring Military and First Responders Sept. 11 at St. Leo the Great Church in Fairfax. CHARLES KRAIGER | COURTESY

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Bishop Michael F. Burbidge (center), Bishop Emeritus Paul S. Loverde (third from left) and clergy participate in the Eucharistic prayer during the Mass Honoring Military and First Responders. CHARLES KRAIGER | COURTESY

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Knights of Columbus line up for the procession into the Mass Honoring Military and First Responders Sept. 11 at St. Leo the Great Church in Fairfax. KIMBERLEY HEATHERINGTON | FOR THE CATHOLIC HERALD

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Bishop Michael F. Burbidge greets a member of the U.S. Navy after the Mass Honoring Military and First Responders Sept. 11 at St. Leo the Great Church in Fairfax. JIM ENGELHARDT | COURTESY

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With cloudiness muddling the skies and scattered raindrops falling, the weather Sept. 11 was not particularly evocative of a certain bright, clear, almost-fall morning 21 years ago. But unlike the shocking and chaotic day in 2001 that witnessed the worst terrorist attack in U.S. history, this Sept. 11 was instead a tranquil opportunity for reflection, remembrance and gratitude as the seventh annual Mass Honoring Military and First Responders was celebrated at St. Leo the Great Church in Fairfax.

Intended as a dual commemoration of the Sept. 11 attacks and as a way to show appreciation for diocesan military, fire and rescue, and police personnel, the liturgy is often referred to as the “Heroes Mass” in recognition of the sacrifices made — and threats faced — by those in uniform. The event is cosponsored by the Knights of Columbus Father Francis J. Diamond Council 6292 and Father Walter F. Malloy Assembly 1894 at St. Leo. Attendees are encouraged to wear their service dress uniform to the Mass, and the occasion is marked afterward with a special photo.

Organizer David Todd Jr., a fourth-degree knight, said the idea for the Mass was born of a calendar coincidence in 2016 when the anniversary fell on a Sunday.

“Immediately, we began to think of ways to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the horrific 9/11 attacks that changed our world forever,” he said.

The yearly invitation list has grown to include all police and fire departments and stations in the cities of Fairfax, Falls Church and Vienna, as well as Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun and Prince William counties.

Bishop Michael F. Burbidge was the principal celebrant, while Bishop Emeritus Paul S. Loverde concelebrated with Father Juan Puigbó, pastor of St. Leo’s, and other clergy. The Virginia Knights of Columbus Ecumenical Chalice was used during the liturgy. Commissioned for the 100th anniversary of the Knights of Columbus’ existence in the commonwealth, it has a papal connection. The chalice was blessed by Pope John Paul II, who used it, effectively making it a second class relic.

“We honor and pray for those in the military, and all of our first responders who each and every day, courageously serve our nation and communities; who selflessly respond to those in most need; and tirelessly work to maintain peace, within our nation and our communities,” Bishop Burbidge said in his homily. “To all of you, dear friends, we thank you for your heroic service. We express gratitude to your spouses and children, and family members who support you, and we pray for you — that God will protect you and watch over you always.”

Preaching on Luke 15:1-32 — which reflects lost and found themes — Bishop Burbidge drew a parallel between first responders and God: “We are all precious in the sight of God — and he will tirelessly search us out and rescue us, so that we are never forgotten. He will never, ever give up on us.”

Military personnel and first responders in attendance said the annual Mass supports them in their vocation.

“It helps to reaffirm that God calls men and women to the military, law enforcement and public service professions so that we may do his will,” said Lt. Michael Bartholme of the City of Fairfax Police Department. “My favorite Scripture reference regarding law enforcement is Matthew 5:9 — ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.’ ”

His wife, Ann Marie Bartholme, agreed. “The Mass is the most powerful prayer. There is no greater way to recognize and honor these individuals than joining together in the holy celebration of the Mass,” she said.

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Stuart McMillan — who joined the Knights following a previous Mass for first responders — said this particular Mass is personal. “Serving in the military myself, having lost teammates, it’s an opportunity for me to reflect and pray for them and their families.”

The Knights’ four pillars — charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism — echoed throughout the Mass. As Patrick Rowland, Knights’ Virginia state deputy, said, “We’re a group of Catholic gentlemen who are here for not only our local parishes and our community, but we’re here for the state, and for our country.”

Heatherington is a freelancer in Alexandria.

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