The mass was also offered in prayerful remembrance for the souls of all who have fallen in the line of duty. "As the Lord Jesus offered Himself on the Cross for the salvation of all," the bishop said, "you bear witness to the sanctity of life through your strength and generous service."

Bishop Joseph F. Martino chose the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, observed this past Sunday (Sept. 14), to offer a mass of thanksgiving for the protection of emergency personnel and public safety workers throughout the Diocese of Scranton.

Bishop Martino served as principal celebrant for the special liturgy offered in St. Peter’s Cathedral.

The mass was celebrated three days after America commemorates the seventh anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

Beginning this week, the mass can be viewed at any time on the diocesan website at www.dioceseofscranton.org by using the "Watch Video" link on the homepage.

More than 450 invitations for the mass were sent to police officers, firefighters and ambulance/emergency service personnel throughout the diocese. In issuing the invitation, Bishop Martino stated, "The celebration of this mass gives us the opportunity to ask God to keep those who serve in public safety safe from all harm."