Hundreds Pack Mass For Late Officer

PHILADELPHIA - An outpouring of emotion came Monday night from a community wounded by the loss of another Philadelphia police officer.

The mass was held at St. Anselm's Church in Northeast Philadelphia to offer love and support for the family of Officer John Pawlowski.

His brother and fellow officers asked for prayers.

It was the first time family has spoken since the five-year force veteran was slain Friday night at Broad Street and Olney Avenue, answering a call to break up a fight between two men.

Inside St. Anselm's, where Pawlowski was a member, not a seat was empty Monday night. Chairs had to be set up in the aisles. Every wall was lined. Some even stood outside. The police presence was strong.

Attendees just wanted to be there to honor the heroic, young man and to support other officers. And it seemed the family appreciated every gesture, Fox 29's Shawnette Wilson reported.

After the service, the officer's brother mustered the strength to speak out.

"We all ask for your good thoughts and prayers for Johnny, for Kimmy and for their future child," Robert Pawlowski said.

Colleen, the sister of Pawlowski's pregnant wife, held a picture of the two just recently married.

"This is obviously a very difficult and trying time for our families. Fortunately, we are blessed with large family, wonderful friends and outstanding neighbors," Robert Pawlowski said.

The Rev. Thomas Dunleavy delivered the homily, speaking directly to Pawlowski's parents and wife.

"They raised Officer Pawlowski to become the principled man he was," Dunleavy said.

A picture of the officer sat at the altar as people prayed for his soul.

Both Police Commissioner Ramsey and Mayor Michael Nutter thanked the community for its support and vowed to continue to protect the entire city and its officers.

"The outpouring of support means so much to the family. They're grief-stricken now but, as time passes on, they'll certainly appreciate the support they've gotten from the community here in Philadelphia," Ramsey said.

People cried. Others smiled, calling the mass a life celebration.

Nutter talked with the media, expressing hurt and frustration, yet vowing to continue to fight in the courts, legislature and out in the streets, Wilson reported.