In a solemn and moving tribute held on Thursday morning at St. Odilo Church, 2244 East Avenue, in Berwyn, the annual Blue Mass brought together police officers, firefighters, EMTs, dispatchers, public officials, and members of the Cicero and Berwyn communities to honor the brave men and women who serve—and have served—in the line of duty.

This year’s ceremony featured heartfelt reflections from Cicero Police Superintendent Tom Boyle and Cicero Fire Chief Jeff Penzkofer, both of whom delivered powerful messages of gratitude, remembrance, and unity.

Superintendent Boyle began his remarks by expressing his deep appreciation for the crowd gathered in solidarity: “Your presence here this morning is not just appreciated, it’s significant,” he said. “It serves as a powerful reminder of the unbreakable bond between those who serve and protect and the communities we are privileged to serve.”

Boyle emphasized the sacred nature of the Blue Mass—not just as a tradition, but as a moment to reflect on the deeper purpose behind public service. He paid special tribute to the fallen—those who made the ultimate sacrifice—and to those who continue to carry the weight of their injuries long after their service.

Among those recognized was Cicero Police Officer Luis Martinez, who continues to recover from injuries sustained in the line of duty in December 2020. Boyle also honored retired Officers Lewis Doherty and Ricardo Sanchez, both of whom were medically retired due to injuries incurred while serving.

“These officers and so many others like them,” Boyle said, “embody what it means to serve with honor. The badge we wear is more than a symbol of authority—it’s a symbol of sacrifice, of responsibility, and of heart.”

In his remarks, Fire Chief Penzkofer offered a more personal and reflective message, noting that while the Blue Mass is about honoring those who have fallen, it’s also about acknowledging the emotional toll carried by those who remain.

“Even ones that are still here—it takes a large emotional toll,” Penzkofer said. “We see people at their worst times on most of our calls, and we chose to help others. It’s all about treating your brother or your neighbor as yourself and spreading the love.”

Chief Penzkofer also praised the community leadership and support that enables first responders to do their jobs effectively, noting the critical roles of Berwyn Mayor Robert Lovero and Cicero Town President Larry Dominick.

“We’re fortunate enough to have great leadership… to allow our police and fire to do the best job and give us the resources and the assets we need,” he said.

The Blue Mass, hosted this year by the Archdiocese of Chicago at St. Odilo and led by Bishop Robert Lombardo, concluded with a resounding call for continued compassion, faith, and mutual support. Both chiefs echoed a central theme: that duty is not carried alone, and that the path forward is lit by the memory of those we’ve lost and the example they set.

As Superintendent Boyle closed his remarks, he left the congregation with a hopeful message: “Let us protect not only our communities but the values that make them worth protecting. May their example light our path forward.”

The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by first responders—and of the community’s enduring gratitude.

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