The emergency responders who serve Pearl River County will be honored at the 14^th annual Blue Mass ceremony.

The event is set to take place on Tuesday, Feb. 24 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Picayune, and is sponsored by the Oscar J. Gelpi Council 6872 of the Knights of Columbus.

Oscar J. Gelpi Council Grand Knight Bryan Cassagne said this event provides an opportunity for the community to show its appreciation for the county’s firefighters, police officers and medical personnel.

The local Blue Mass first started in 2002 following the events of September 11.

“It’s a way for us to show thanks for the heroic work they do. They put themselves on the line every day and we want to show our appreciation,” Cassagne said.

This year, Blue Mass will begin at 7 p.m. with a service at the church. Afterwards, several community members will receive the 2015 Chief Tom Wagner Community Spirit Award for their service.

“This is the third year we’ve been handing out the award, which will go to a member from each of the five departments we’re honoring,” he said. “It will be a surprise for those who are being awarded.”

At 8 p.m., dinner will be served and door prices donated from various local businesses will be handed out.

“Every year, local businesses have been great and we appreciate them giving us prizes to share,” Cassagne said.

This year, the principal celebrant will be Rev. Joseph Trinh. Fourth Degree honor guard Fr. Michael Lean Assembly 2227 will also be in attendance, Cassagne said.