As designated by Congress, October 28th is National First Responders Day. However, like St Nicholas in Weirton last month, two more parishes just couldn't wait to give their thanks to God for the men and women who serve thier communities.

In the Eastern Deanery, Ss. Mary and Michael Parish hosted first responders from throughout our county at the Nativity of the Theotokos Church in Madera. The morning began with a brief prayer service in appreciation and for the protection of those who keep us safe and free from harm. It was followed by lunch and the blessing of their vehicles (police cars, firetrucks, ambulances, etc.) as the officers departed. 

In the Southwest Deanery, St. John the Baptist Church in Canonsburg hosted a Breakfast on Saturday, October 14th (8 am to 12 Noon) honoring First Responders in their surrounding communities of Houston and Fort Cherry. Everyone enjoyed an All You Can Eat Breakfast of pancakes, sausage, eggs, home fries and more. While First Responders ate for free, tickets were sold to other so that the profits could be divided and donated to the Houston Police Department, Houston Fire Department and Fort Cherry Ambulance.