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SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) — The Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield has held its first special Mass to offer spiritual support to people suffering from Alzheimer's and dementia as well as their loved ones and caregivers.
The so-called Purple Mass was held Saturday afternoon at St. Michael's Cathedral.
The event was organized by Joy Danita Allen, whose mother has Alzheimer's, as well as other members of the Ladies of St. Peter's Claver Auxiliary.
She noted that the diocese holds several special Masses already — including the Pink Mass for cancer survivors, a Blue Mass for police officers and a Red Mass for lawyers.
She hoped the event will bring people together to share their stories.
The Mass was open to people of all faiths. Attendees were encouraged to wear purple.
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