November 5, 2021

Annual Purple Mass to offer prayers for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease

REGIONAL
By Rebecca Drake

Worshipers attend the 2017 Purple Mass at St. Michael’s Cathedral in Springfield. (Catholic Communications file photo)

SPRINGFIELD – The seventh annual Purple Mass, sponsored by the Knights and Ladies of St. Peter Claver of the Springfield Diocese, will be held on Sunday, Nov. 14 at 8:30 a.m. at St. Michael’s Cathedral, 254 State St., here.

The Purple Mass was initiated in 2014 by St. Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary member Joy Danita Allen to promote awareness and to pray for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, including patients, caregivers, and family members. The Knights of St. Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary is a Catholic lay organization and was established in the Springfield Diocese in 1988.

November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and National Caregivers Month.

Alzheimer’s disease is a type of brain disorder that causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. It is a gradually progressive condition. More than 3 million cases are diagnosed each year in the U.S.

“The hope and wishes of those involved, especially those who care for loved ones with this disease, is that they are not forgotten. This Mass is our way of communicating this and offering special prayers for them,” said Marion Johnson, director of the diocese’s Black Catholic Apostolate and a member of the St. Peter Claver Society.

Johnson said this special Mass has been appreciated by local worshipers from throughout the area.

“We have always received positive responses to this Mass,” she said. “Many people attend from around the city. Also, usually a representative from the local Alzheimer’s organization attends. 

“It is very gratifying for our group to be able to once again participate and offer these prayers,” Johnson said. “It makes us feel that we are giving back to the community and taking on responsible actions.”

The Mass was not held in 2020 due to pandemic restrictions, Johnson said.

“The last time the Purple Mass was held was during 2019. This upcoming Mass will be our seventh one,” Johnson said. “We are so proud of this and we intend to continue its growth. A cure has to be found and we are so happy to be a part of this.”

All are welcome to attend the Mass, which will be followed by a reception in the adjoining Bishop Marshall Center.