The Hardhat Mass originated with a simple memorial service for workers who died in the workplace in all industries, not just construction. That annual memorial service, which began in 2002, was held in St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church in Manhattan. It was scheduled to coincide with International Workers’ Memorial Day, which is recognized on April 28th of each year.
A tragic crane accident on March 15, 2008 took the lives of six union construction workers and one civilian. It was the worst tragedy in the construction industry in New York City since the attack on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.
This event galvanized the construction industry, and the memorial service for that year became the New York City Construction Workers’ Memorial Mass, also known as the Hardhat Mass. A larger venue was required, and on April 28, 2008, the first annual Hardhat Mass was celebrated at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan.
In early 2009, a Committee was formed to plan the annual Hardhat Mass. The Committee welcomes others who are called to this ministry in their communities. It encourages them to use the Hardhat Mass as a model and guide to modify as appropriate for their local needs.
To this end we are providing for all to use our NEW YORK CITY CONSTRUCTION WORKERS’ MEMORIAL MASS ORGANIZATIONAL BOOKLET. You may download the booklet by cliciking the button below. We hope this serves other communities who want to honor and commemorate workers with their own memorial service.
For further information, please contact Fr. Brian Jordan at bjordan@stfrancisnyc.org.