Mayor Honors Archbishop with Proclamation at Annual Blue Mass

ALBUQUERQUE – Mayor Tim Keller recognized Archbishop John C. Wester Thursday for five decades of priestly service and for his contributions to Albuquerque’s spiritual and civic life at the annual Blue Mass at Queen of Heaven parish.

The annual Blue Mass tradition celebrates the work of law enforcement and recognizes the sacrifices they and their families make in service to the community. Mayor Keller issued a proclamation before the Mass, honoring Archbishop Wester for his longstanding commitment to faith, service and the people of Albuquerque. 

“Archbishop Wester has spent years showing what it means to put service ahead of self,” said Mayor Keller. “That is something worth recognizing, and not just within the Catholic community, but across Albuquerque. We are a stronger city when people answer that call and show up for one another.”

The City’s Public Safety Director Raul Bujanda also spoke at the mass and thanked clergy, families and friends for supporting the City’s first responders. This year’s Blue Mass also came just days after the City’s first responders commemorated 25 years since the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks.

“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside first responders throughout my career. Different uniforms, different agencies, and different responsibilities, but the commitment is the same,” said Raul Bujanda, Public Safety Director. “When someone needs help, you go.”

Archbishop Wester was ordained to the priesthood in 1976 and has spent his ministry serving communities across the country. He was appointed Archbishop of Salt Lake City in 2007 and in 2015 was named the 12^th Archbishop of Santa Fe.

In Albuquerque, the Archdiocese of Santa Fe has a longstanding presence through its Pastoral Center, Catholic parishes, schools, ministries, and charitable organizations. Under Archbishop Wester’s leadership, the Archdiocese has continued its work serving people and bringing communities together.

Mayor Keller proclaimed September 17, 2026, as Archbishop John C. Wester Day in the City of Albuquerque.

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