Statement by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge in honor of National Police Week

Brothers and sisters in Christ,

Beginning Sunday, May 14, our country will observe National Police Week. During this week, we pay tribute to law enforcement officers across the country who lost their lives in the line of duty.

As we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, we also express our gratitude to all members of law enforcement who put their lives on the line each day, as well as to their spouses, children and loved ones who support them and pray for their safety. Today, sadly, many communities are affected by violence and unrest, often caused or induced by drugs, mental illness or simply a disregard for the dignity of human life and morality. 

Police officers work to preserve the law and order upon which our nation is built, often at the expense of their own personal safety. Policing requires its members to exhibit courage, patience, fortitude, generosity of spirit and, most especially, wisdom in carrying out their duties. We are blessed by those who undertake this work and are forever grateful for their service.

For those who gave their lives, we ask God, in his mercy, to draw them to himself in eternal life. For those living members of the law enforcement community, we ask St. Michael the Archangel to defend and protect them. May Our Lord, through the intercession of St. Joseph the protector and Mary our mother, bless those who walk the blue line for our sake, and their families, now and forever.