COLUMN: First responders honored in special Blue Mass

The Knights of Columbus of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church held a special Blue Mass to recognize first responders for their work and their sacrifice.

More than 50 first responders from the Venice and North Port area marched into church behind flags and a bagpiper, Gary Rhinestrom, who was playing Amazing Grace.

Included in the processional were the K-9s and their handlers from Sarasota K-9 Search and Rescue. Zoe, Alex and the other K-9s loved all the attention.

Bishop Frank Dewane gave a homily about love and service.

“Love is being willing to do for each other,” he said. “... Christ is present in many ways. Love one another as Christ loves us.”

The music ministers at Our Lady of Lourdes made the Mass a wonderful, patriotic service. No doubt, Lee Greenwood would be thrilled knowing his “Proud to be an American” was sung out in joy in remembrance of 9/11.

Singing “God Bless America” in church among first responders brought smiles, with robust voices making the entire congregation a choir.

At the end of Mass, the names of deceased firefighters were read and the ringing of the bell signified, “End of watch.”

Everyone alive on 9/11 will never forget.

Thank you, Our Lady of Lourdes Knights of Columbus and families, music ministers, Bishop Frank DeWayne and everyone who participated in the beautiful Blue Mass. Thank you, first responders, living and deceased.

One Of Our BestThe special person of this week is Emilio Carlesimo. He is one of the retired first responders honored at the Blue Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Church.

Emilio was a firefighter in Michigan and retired. He and his wife, Brenda, moved to Venice, where he became a firefighter in this town. After retiring, Emilio was elected to the Venice City Council.

These days, Emilio continues his work in the community. His ministries include driving people to church and appointments. He visits friends in nursing homes and rehabs and feeds those who cannot feed themselves.

He sits with the homebound who need company and are alone.

Emilio is on hand to help anyone in need. He enjoys his involvement in political clubs. He is usually ready for a meal out with friends at one of the local restaurants. He is fun, friendly and kind, and he likes a good joke.

Emilio is one of the men who makes Venice a great place to live.