MARIA STEIN – On the evening of Thursday, May 11 at 7 p.m., Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics will host a Blue Mass for public service employees and volunteers.
May 7-13 has been designated by congress as Public Service Recognition Week. Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics is holding this prayer service to thank and pray for those individuals for all that they do.
“A Blue Mass is time for first responders, police, firefighters, EMTS, and others, to gather together in the presence of Christ. It is a time where spiritual and mental strength come from God’s grace through prayer and fellowship”, says Matthew Hess, ministries and hospitality coordinator at the Shrine. “This Mass is also a time when the faith community of the area comes together to say thank you for the courage and sacrifice that these men and women have shown in their work. We ask God to bless them and keep them safe, while also thanking Him for the gifts he has given these civil servants.”
The service will be celebrated by Holy Trinity of Coldwater pastor the Rev. Rick Walling, who also serves as the Dean of St. Mary’s Deanery. The evening will conclude with light refreshments and socializing in the gathering space at the Shrine.
Public service individuals are being asked to do more with less, while tackling increasingly complex issues. The Shrine values their contribution to society and hopes many first responders, police, firefighters, EMTS, and their loved ones will be able to attend this service.
The Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics provides faith nourishment and spiritual renewal through opportunities for prayer and pilgrimage and inspiration from the lives of the saints. People from around the world visit the shrine to explore and enjoy this environment rich in holiness and history. The Relic Chapel is home to the second largest collection of relics of the saints in the United States.
The Shrine is located at 2291 St. John’s Road in Maria Stein. To learn more about the Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics, visit www.mariasteinshrine.org.
