This is to advise the news media that the Metropolitan Police Department will be participating in the celebration of the Thirteenth Annual Blue Mass for law enforcement and public safety officers. The principal celebrant and homilist will be the Archbishop of Washington, His Excellency, Donald W. Wuerl.  Chief of Police Cathy L. Lanier will be providing a reading. The Blue Mass is one of the first events during National Police Week. It provides an opportunity for individuals to pray for those that have fallen in the line of duty and for the continued safety of those who serve in law enforcement and public safety services. In accommodation of the Blue Mass, the following streets will be temporarily closed beginning at 10 am until the completion of services.

• G Street, NW, between 9th Street, NW and 11th Street, NW
• 10th Street, NW, between F Street, NW and H Street, NW

There will be a procession of law enforcement and public safety officers into the Church before the Mass.

Members of the news media are invited to attend.

Date:	Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Time:	12:10 pm
Location:	St. Patrick's Catholic Church 10th & G Streets, NW
Contact:	Inspector Kevin Keegan (202) 698-0066