FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Amy B. Hill, APR, 717-238-9613 or [email protected]



HARRISBURG (Jan. 4) - C. Angela Bontempo, President and CEO of St. Vincent Health System in Erie, Pa., begins a new term as chairperson of the Pennsylvania Catholic Health Association (PCHA). Prior to her election as chair, Bontempo served as vice-chairperson and as a member of the PCHA Board of Directors. "Ms. Bontempo brings her zeal for Catholic health care and strong enthusiasm to PCHA," said PCHA President Sister Clare Christi Schiefer, OSF. "We look forward to her leadership in this key role for the Association.

Greg T. Wozniak, President and CEO of St. Mary Medical Center in Langhorne, Pa., will serve as the vice-chairperson; Sister Joanne Bednar, SCC, Board Chair, Susquehanna Health, Divine Providence Hospital/Muncy Valley Hospital, Williamsport, Pa. will be secretary; and John R. Morahan, President and CEO of St. Joseph Regional Health Network in Reading, Pa., will be treasurer. Carol J. Quinn, President and CEO of Mercy Home Health Services in Springfield, Pa, is the past-chairperson. Other members include:

- Neil G. Armstrong, Senior VP/COO, Susquehanna Health System, Williamsport, Pa.
- Michelle A. Bieszczad, Administrator, St. John Neumann Nursing Home, Philadelphia, Pa.
- Christina Fitz-Patrick, President and CEO, Nazareth Hospital, Philadelphia, Pa.
- Sister Romaine Niemeyer, SCC, President/CEO, Holy Spirit Health System, Camp Hill, Pa.
- Mary F. Turnbaugh, President, St. Anne's Retirement Community, Columbia, Pa.
- Judith A. Persichilli, Executive Vice President, Acute Care Division, Catholic Health East, Newtown Square, Pa.
- Mary Theresa Vautrinot, President and CEO, Marian Community Hospital, Carbondale, Pa.
- Sister Kathryn Clauss, IHM, Member, Leadership Team, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Scranton, Pa.

PCHA is indeed blessed to have such qualified and committed members serving the interest of the Catholic health ministry and the Church in Pennsylvania."

PCHA, an associate of the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference (PCC), is a statewide organization of Catholic hospitals, long-term care facilities, numerous multi-facility health systems and other related health care entities, sponsoring religious congregations and dioceses. The association provides support for the Catholic health ministry through Gospel witness in advocacy, communication, education and united action. PCHA makes policy recommendations to the PCC.

For more information about PCHA, log on to www.pacatholic.org/pcha.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director for Communications
215-587-3747

The Office for Youth and Young Adults of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and Most Reverend Daniel Thomas, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will host hundreds of young adults (ages 18-39) for Vocations Night at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul to launch Vocations Awareness Week.

The two-part "Catholic Underground" evening will include a candlelight Eucharistic Adoration service, song and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. Vocations Night will conclude with a Coffee House format of refreshments, discussion and concert by Jesuit Seminarian Michael Magree, S.J.

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Sister William Adele, S.S.J., Principal of St. Luke the Evangelist Parish School in Glenside, Montgomery County, was selected to receive the Dr. Robert J. Kealey Distinguished Principal Award from the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA).

Each fall, Catholic school superintendents across the country are invited to nominate one principal from their diocese for the award. From these nominees, 12 principals are chosen to receive the national honor. The 12 winners, including Sr. William Adele, will be presented with the award at the Elementary Department Awards Banquet on Tuesday, April 14, 2009 during the 2009 NCEA Convention in Anaheim, California.

"Sister William excels at creating and sustaining a culture of mutual support and collective responsibility for the education and faith formation of every student at St. Luke's," said Mary Rochford, Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. "This award is a testament to the fact that Sister William is a role model to thousands of dedicated teachers, administrators and support staff who work in our schools every day to ensure our students' academic enrichment and spiritual development."

Sr. William Adele has been faithfully serving Catholic school students for more than 40 years. During this time, she has worked as both an elementary school teacher and principal in Catholic schools throughout the Archdiocese of Philadelphia since beginning her career in 1966. Sr. William Adele assumed the role of principal at St. Luke the Evangelist Parish School in September 2001. In 2004, she was named Distinguished Principal for Montgomery County by the Office of Catholic Education of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

An inherent piece of the American dream - that children have more opportunities and a better life than their parents - is seriously at risk as the incidence of obesity among children continues to rise, and the current generation of children could become the first in this country's history to have a shorter lifespan than their parents

To address this growing epidemic, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is now using Health eTools for Schools- an award-winning web tool that helps school nurses, teachers, administrators, and parents support the reduction of student obesity by encouraging young people to adopt healthy lifestyles. The program is being provided at no cost through the Archdiocese's health insurer, Independence Blue Cross, which launched the program last year to all public schools in the five-county Philadelphia region.

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia currently serves 80,000 students in 182 elementary schools, 20 high schools, and five schools of special education, located throughout Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties. The addition of the Archdiocesan schools to the Health eTools program brings the total number of students in the region who will benefit from Health eTools for Schools to nearly 375,000. This includes students in suburban school districts such as North Penn in Montgomery County, Pennsbury in Bucks County, and William Penn in Delaware County.

"In our classrooms, we teach our students that the gift of life and good health is a blessing," said Dr. Richard McCarron, Secretary for Catholic Education for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. "By working with Independence Blue Cross and the Health eTools for Schools program, we can expand this teaching to support our students in maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise."

"School is the ideal environment to promote good health because of the many diverse opportunities for students to learn about and practice healthy habits, such as eating right and exercising," said Joseph A. Frick, president and CEO of Independence Blue Cross. "By building on the trusting relationships kids have with their teachers, nurses, and others at school, we're making a great start at creating a future generation of healthier adults. We're very pleased that the Archdiocese recognizes this special opportunity and has adopted Health eTools for Schools."

HOW THE PROGRAM WILL HELP THE ARCHDIOCESE
Teachers, nurses, and other education professionals will use Health eTools for Schools through a secure web portal. The program provides electronic health records, including health screenings such as body mass index, vision, and hearing that will help Archdiocese school administrators more easily comply with federal and state mandates regarding health and wellness. Physical education teachers at the Archdiocese will use the tool to create customized fitness assessments and tailor interventions to students' needs and school resources. The tool will also help schools better communicate with parents about the specific fitness levels and needs of their children.

"The Archdiocese strives to provide our students with a holistic education focused on enriching their minds, bodies and souls, and Health eTools for Schools is an innovative way to stress the importance of being healthy," said Mary E. Rochford, superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. "Health eTools for Schools will integrate perfectly with our new wellness campaign, by allowing our educators to access health information quickly, create comprehensive wellness plans, and apply best practices in keeping our students healthy. The program includes more than 500 lesson plans for all grade levels that teach physical education and nutrition across our curriculum, so healthy living can be incorporated into all of our learning environments, not just the gym and cafeteria."

The IBC subsidy for Health eTools for Schools is being made through a licensing agreement with InnerLink, Inc., which developed the tool for the Highmark Foundation, a charitable organization and affiliate of Highmark Inc. Based in Lancaster, PA, InnerLink, Inc. provides educational resources and cutting-edge technology to help schools comply with wellness policy requirements and encourage better nutrition and physical activity for children.

THE CHILDHOOD OBESITY EPIDEMIC
Research and statistics point to the need for increased attention on obesity and other health related problems plaguing our nation's youth.

- According to a 2007 Centers for Disease Control survey that evaluates youth risk behaviors, Philadelphia students had a greater risk compared with the rest of the nation's students to be obese and not meet recommended daily levels of physical activity.
- In a study of Philadelphia elementary school students led by a Temple University professor last fall, researchers found that overweight children were absent more than normal-weight children: 12 days for overweight children compared to 10 days for average-weight children over the course of the school year.
- U.S. Surgeon General reports that more than 17 percent of people between age two and 19 are overweight or obese. Since the mid-1970s, the number of overweight and obese children has tripled, and
- Overweight children have an increased risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, and emotional problems.

About the Archidiocese of Philadelphia
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia is made up of almost 1.5 million Catholics, with 270 parishes within the five-county area. There are 182 parish and regional elementary schools, 20 high schools, and five schools of special education, serving 80,000 students. The Archdiocese of Philadelphia is celebrating its bicentennial: 1808 to 2008.

About Independence Blue Cross
Independence Blue Cross is the leading health insurer in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Nationwide, IBC and its affiliates provide coverage to nearly 3.4 million people. For 70 years, Independence Blue Cross has offered quality health care products and services tailored to meet the changing needs of members, employers, groups, and providers. For more information on Independence Blue Cross, visit www.ibx.com.

About InnerLink, Inc.
Lancaster, PA-based InnerLink, Inc. founded in 2001, provides a wide range of health and safety technology solutions for schools, communities, and health care professionals across the United States. InnerLink's products include web-based wellness curriculum for the education market; portal technology that allows school districts to manage system-wide Coordinated School Health programs, policies and student health records; online personal electronic health records that allow users to manage their own health information and carry it with them 24/7; and portal solutions for organizations and communities to manage disaster preparedness planning, response, and recovery. For more information, visit www.TheInnerLink.com.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

CELEBRANT: HIS EMINENCE CARDINAL JUSTIN RIGALI

Thursday 02/19/2009 4:00 PM Saint Martin of Tours, Philadelphia
Saturday 02/21/2009 10:00 AM Saint Therese of the Child Jesus, Philadelphia

Thursday 03/05/2009 5:00 PM Our Lady of Hope, Philadelphia
Monday 03/16/2009 4:00 PM Saint John the Baptist, Philadelphia
Saturday 03/21/2009 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM Saint Joseph, Downingtown


Friday 04/03/2009 5:00 PM Saint Andrew, Newtown
Saturday 04/04/2009 10:00 AM & 1:30 PM Saint Andrew, Newtown
Monday 04/20/2009 4:00 PM Saint Denis, Havertown
Tuesday 04/21/2009 6:00 PM Annunciation B.V.M., Philadelphia
Wednesday 04/22/2009 4:00 PM Saint Philip Neri, Lafayette Hill

Saturday 05/09/2009 10:00 AM & 1:30 PM Saint Agnes, West Chester


CELEBRANT: MOST REVEREND ROBERT P. MAGINNIS

Saturday 02/21/2009 10:00 AM Saint Bridget, Philadelphia
Saturday 02/28/2009 10:00 AM Visitation B.V.M., Philadelphia

Monday 03/02/2009 4:00 PM Nativity of Our Lord, Warminster
Monday 03/09/2009 4:00 PM Holy Cross, Springfield
Wednesday 03/11/2009 4:00 PM Saint Laurence, Highland Park
Thursday 03/12/2009 4:00 PM Maternity B.V.M., Philadelphia
Saturday 03/14/2009 11:00 AM Saint Francis of Assisi, Norristown
Sunday 03/15/2009 2:30 PM Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, Limerick
Saturday 03/21/2009 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM Saint Cornelius, Chadds Ford
Sunday 03/22/2009 11:00 AM Saint Francis of Assisi, Philadelphia
Wednesday 03/25/2009 4:00 PM Saints Peter & Paul, East Goshen/West Chester
Saturday 03/28/2009 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM Saint Maximilian Kolbe, West Chester
Sunday 03/29/2009 11:30 AM Saint Leo, Philadelphia

Wednesday 04/01/2009 4:00 PM Saint Pius X, Broomall
Saturday 04/05/2009 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM Saint Patrick, Malvern
Sunday 04/19/2009 10:30 AM Saint Joseph, Coatesville
Tuesday 04/21/2009 4:00 PM Saint Basil the Great, Kimberton
Saturday 04/25/2009 10:00 AM & 1:30 PM Saint Joseph, Spring City
Sunday 04/26/2009 12:00 Noon Our Lady of Consolation, Parkesburg

Sunday 05/03/2009 10:00 AM Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament, Philadelphia
Thursday 05/07/2009 4:00 PM Saint Genevieve, Flourtown
Saturday 05/09/2009 5:00 PM Our Lady of Ransom, Philadelphia
Sunday 05/10/2009 11:00 AM Sacred Heart, Phoenixville
Monday 05/11/2009 4:00 PM Saint Peter, West Brandywine
Wednesday 05/13/2009 4:00 PM Saint Mary, Schwenksville
Thursday 05/14/2009 4:00 PM Saint Gabriel of the Sorrowful Mother, Avondale
Monday 05/18/2009 4:00 PM Our Lady of the Rosary, Coatesville
Wednesday 05/20/2009 4:00 PM Stella Maris, Philadelphia
Tuesday 05/26/2009 4:00 PM Saint John Chrysostom, Wallingford


CELEBRANT: MOST REVEREND JOSEPH R. CISTONE

Thursday 02/12/2009 4:00 PM Holy Spirit, Philadelphia
Monday 02/23/2009 4:00 PM Saint Albert the Great, Huntingdon Valley

Monday 03/02/2009 4:00 PM Saint Eugene, Primos
Wednesday 03/04/2009 4:00 PM Holy Name of Jesus, Philadelphia
Saturday 03/07/2009 10:30 AM Saint Stanislaus, Lansdale
Tuesday 03/10/2009 4:00 PM Saint Timothy, Philadelphia
Thursday 03/12/2009 4:00 PM Saint Helena, Blue Bell
Saturday 03/14/2009 10:00 AM Saint Bernadette, Drexel Hill
Tuesday 03/17/2009 4:00 PM Saint Alice, Upper Darby
Thursday 03/19/2009 4:00 PM Saint Alphonsus, Maple Glen
Sunday 03/22/2009 3:00 PM Immaculate Conception, Marcus Hook
Tuesday 03/24/2009 4:00 PM Saint Gabriel, Norwood
Wednesday 03/25/2009 4:00 PM Immaculate Conception, Levittown
Saturday 03/28/2009 10:00 AM Epiphany of Our Lord, Philadelphia
Monday 03/30/2009 4:00 PM All Saints, Philadelphia

Saturday 04/18/2009 10:30 AM & 1:30 PM Saints Philip & James, Exton
Sunday 04/19/2009 4:00 PM Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, West Grove
Tuesday 04/21/2009 4:00 PM Saint Charles Borromeo, Bensalem
Wednesday 04/22/2009 5:00 PM Saint Isidore, Quakertown
Sunday 04/26/2009 11:00 AM Saint Philip Neri, Philadelphia
Tuesday 04/28/2009 4:00 PM Saint Cecilia, Coatesville
Wednesday 04/29/2009 4:00 PM Our Lady of the Assumption, Strafford
Thursday 04/30/2009 7:00 PM Our Mother of Consolation, Philadelphia

Sunday 05/03/2009 10:30 AM Saint Hugh of Cluny, Philadelphia
Sunday 05/03/3009 3:00 PM Saint George, Glenolden
Friday 05/08/2009 5:00 PM Saint Teresa of Avila, Norristown
Saturday 05/09/2009 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM Saint Eleanor, Collegeville
Monday 05/11/2009 4:00 PM Saint Agnes, Sellersville
Tuesday 05/12/2009 4:00 PM Saint Joseph, Collingdale

CELEBRANT: MOST REVEREND JOSEPH P. MC FADDEN

Tuesday 02/17/2009 4:00 PM Saint Peter the Apostle, Philadelphia
Thursday 02/19/2009 4:00 PM Our Mother of Good Counsel, Bryn Mawr
Friday 02/20/2009 4:00 PM Saint Mary Magdalen, Media
Saturday 02/21/2009 10:00 AM Saint Monica, Berwyn
Monday 02/23/2009 4:00 PM Saint Titus, Norristown
Tuesday 02/24/2009 4:00 PM Saint Catherine of Siena, Horsham
Thursday 02/26/2009 4:00 PM Saint Robert Bellarmine, Warrington
Saturday 02/28/2009 10:00 AM Saint Cecilia, Philadelphia

Sunday 03/01/2009 11:45 AM Saint Paul, Philadelphia
Monday 03/02/2009 4:00 PM Saint Joseph, Warrington
Saturday 03/07/2009 10:00 AM Saint Donato, Philadelphia
Sunday 03/08/2009 11:00 AM Saint Edmond, Philadelphia
Monday 03/09/2009 4:00 PM Saint Francis of Assisi, Springfield
Tuesday 03/10/2009 4:00 PM Saint Helena, Philadelphia
Wednesday 03/11/2009 4:00 PM Our Lady of Guadalupe, Buckingham
Thursday 03/12/2009 4:00 PM Nativity B.V.M., Media
Friday 03/13/2009 4:00 PM Saint Frances Cabrini, Fairless Hills
Wednesday 03/18/2009 4:00 PM Our Lady of Good Counsel, Southampton
Thursday 03/19/2009 4:00 PM Saint Jerome, Philadelphia
Friday 03/20/2009 4:00 PM Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Doylestown
Saturday 03/21/2009 10:00 AM Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Doylestown
Sunday 03/22/2009 1:00 PM Saint Thomas of Villanova, Villanova
Monday 03/23/2009 4:00 PM Saint Mark, Bristol
Friday 03/27/2009 4:00 PM Saint John the Baptist, Ottsville
Saturday 03/28/2009 11:00 AM Saint Thomas More, South Coventry
Monday 03/30/2009 4:00 PM Saint Cyril of Alexandria, East Lansdowne

Wednesday 04/01/2009 4:00 PM Saint Justin Martyr/Saint John Vianney
at Saint John Vianney, Gladwyne
Thursday 04/02/2009 4:00 PM Saint Vincent de Paul, Philadelphia
Monday 04/20/2009 4:00 PM Saint John Neumann, Bryn Mawr

CELEBRANT: MOST REVEREND DANIEL E. THOMAS

Wednesday 02/11/2009 4:00 PM Saint Katharine of Siena, Philadelphia
Saturday 02/14/2009 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM Mary, Mother of the Redeemer, North Wales
Saturday 02/21/2009 4:30 PM Saint Joachim, Philadelphia
Saturday 02/28/2009 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM Ss. Simon & Jude, West Chester

Monday 03/02/2009 4:00 PM Saint Andrew the Apostle, Drexel Hill
Wednesday 03/04/2009 4:00 PM Saint Christopher, Philadelphia
Saturday 03/07/2009 9:00 AM & 12:00 Noon Saint Katharine of Siena, Wayne
Wednesday 03/11/2009 4:00 PM Saint Laurentius, Philadelphia
Saturday 03/14/2009 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM Saint Bede the Venerable, Holland
Wednesday 03/18/2009 4:00 PM Saint Joseph, Aston
Tuesday 03/24/2009 4:00 PM Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Hilltown
Wednesday 03/25/2009 4:00 PM Saint Monica, Philadelphia
Saturday 03/28/2009 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Yardley
Monday 03/30/2009 4:00 PM Saint James, Elkins Park

Wednesday 04/01/2009 4:00 PM Saint John Cantius, Philadelphia
Monday 04/06/2009 4:00 PM Saint Thomas the Apostle, Glen Mills
Tuesday 04/14/2009 4:00 PM Saint John the Evangelist, Morrisville
Wednesday 04/15/2009 4:00 PM Saint Patrick, Kennett Square
Friday 04/17/2009 4:00 PM Saint Luke the Evangelist, Glenside
Saturday 04/18/2009 5:00 PM Saint Agatha/Saint James, Philadelphia
Sunday 04/19/2009 2:00 PM Our Lady Help of Christians, Abington
Friday 04/24/2009 4:00 PM Our Lady of Peace, Milmont Park
Saturday 04/25/2009 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM Saint Elizabeth, Upper Uwchlan
Sunday 04/26/2009 10:45 AM Saint Francis de Sales, Philadelphia

Sunday 05/03/2009 11:30 AM Saint Ambrose, Philadelphia
Monday 05/04/2009 4:00 PM Saint Maria Goretti, Hatfield
Monday 05/11/2009 4:00 PM Queen of the Universe, Levittown
Wednesday 05/13/2009 4:00 PM Assumption B.V.M., Feasterville
Thursday 05/14/2009 4:00 PM Saint Matthew, Philadelphia
Tuesday 05/19/2009 4:00 PM Saint Norbert, Paoli
Saturday 05/23/2009 10:00 AM Visitation, B.V.M., Norristown

CELEBRANT: MOST REVEREND LOUIS A. DE SIMONE

Wednesday 04/01/2009 4:00 PM Presentation B.V.M., Wynnewood
Saturday 04/04/2009 10:00 AM Saint Charles Borromeo, Drexel Hill
Thursday 04/23/2009 4:00 PM Epiphany of Our Lord, Plymouth Meeting
Sunday 04/26/2009 3:00 PM Saint Mary, Conshohocken
Tuesday 04/28/2009 4:00 PM Sacred Heart, Manoa

Tuesday 05/12/2009 5:00 PM Saint Matthew, Conshohocken
Thursday 05/14/2009 5:00 PM Ss. Cosmos & Damian, Conshohocken

# # #

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will lead the 26th Annual Archdiocesan Interfaith Prayer Service in remembrance of the life of Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Junior. Cardinal Rigali will be joined by various religious and civic leaders in recalling the life of Dr. King, especially his message of nonviolence and respect for all people.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will lead thousands of people from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, January 22, 2009. This date marks the 36th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision in 1973 that legalized abortion. Joining Cardinal Rigali will be the four Auxiliary Bishops of Philadelphia; priests and religious men and women; seminarians from Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, students and parishioners.

As Chairman of the Pro-Life Committee of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Cardinal Rigali will be the principal celebrant and homilist for the Vigil Mass for Life held on:

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia will join in the national observation of Catholic Schools Week from January 25 to 31, 2009. Catholic Schools Week is an annual celebration of the values-centered, faith-driven education that students receive in Catholic elementary, secondary and special education schools. The national theme for Catholic Schools Week 2009, is "Catholic Schools Celebrate Service." This is the 35th year of the national Catholic Schools Week celebration, which continues today as a joint project of the National Catholic Educational Association and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

In the Archdiocese of Philadelphia there are:
- 182 parish and regional elementary schools
- 20 Archdiocesan high schools
- 5 schools of special education
- Parish elementary school enrollment is 57,537
- High school enrollment is 19,137
- Schools of Special Education enrollment is 258

Tuesday, January 27, 2009 at 1:30 p.m. Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will bless the new building for the early education program at St. Francis of Assisi Parish School, 601-A Buttonwood Street, Norristown, 19401 (Montgomery County).

During Catholic Schools Week, students, parents and teachers throughout the five-county Archdiocese will celebrate with a variety of special religious, social and recreational activities. Following is a list of some of the activities planned:

Sunday, January 25, 2009
St. Catherine of Siena Parish School- 317 Witmer Road, Horsham, Montgomery County (215-674-1904)
9 a.m. - The "Rose Gerace Award" will be presented to an individual who has faithfully served the school. The service award has been recognizing deserving individuals for 15 years.

St. Frances Cabrini Parish School - 10 Goble Court, Fairless Hills, Bucks County (215-946-6334)
11 a.m. - Mass will be held to honor Sophie Cronin of Fairless Hills and Karen Dorneman of Yardley for their 25 years of service in education
12 p.m. - 2 p.m. - Students will pose in a "wax museum" presentation in the school's gymnasium. During the presentation, students will be dressed up as various people from history, including saints, scientists, humanitarians, educators, politicians, and inventors.

Archbishop Wood Catholic High School- 655 York Road, Warminster, Bucks County (215-672-5050)
2:00 p.m. - An assembly will be held to honor the 24 winners of the Archbishop Wood Writing Contest. The Archbishop Wood administration, including the English Department Chairperson and the Director of Admissions, are scheduled to attend this annual event along with the contest winners and their families.




Monday, January 26, 2009
Pope John Paul II Regional School- 4435 Almond Street, Philadelphia (215-535-3446)
8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. - In appreciation of their service to the community, members of the local fire department and police district will be invited to a breakfast at the school cafeteria.

St. Aloysius Parish School - 220 N. Hanover Street, Pottstown, Montgomery County (215-946-6334)
9:00 a.m. -- All of the students from Kindergarten to eighth grade will prepare "birthday boxes" that will be delivered to the North Coventry Food Pantry. The boxes will include all of the supplies necessary for a birthday celebration.

St. Genevieve Parish School - 1237 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown, Montgomery County (215-836-5644)
8:00 a.m. - A prayer service will be held for peace, justice and integrity. At the service, Captain Brian Loftus of the Armed Forces will present the flag that was flown in Iraq by Captain Loftus for St. Genevieve Parish School. At each hour throughout the day, a student will read an excerpt from the Preamble, Constitution, Bill of Rights, Gettysburg Address, John F. Kennedy's famous Presidential Address and the Martin Luther King, Jr. "I Have a Dream" speech.

Resurrection of Our Lord Parish School - 2020 Shelmire Street, Philadelphia (215-742-1127)
1:00 p.m. - In preparation of the students collecting "meals in a can" to be donated to St. Francis Inn throughout Catholic Schools Week, two representatives from St. Francis Inn will speak to the students about their service to the poor.

Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Bishop Shanahan High School- 220 Woodbine Road, Downingtown, Chester County (610-518-1300)
8:30 a.m. & 9:30 a.m. - As part of Student Appreciation Day, the popular Musicopia group, "Phil-A-Rhythm," will be showing Bishop Shanahan students the art of performing with percussion instruments. Following the assembly, the musicians will be giving a private workshop to Bishop Shanahan's percussion students.

St. Francis De Sales Parish School - 39 New Road, Aston, Delaware County (610-459-0799)
9 a.m. & 10 a.m. - The Science Explorers (www.scienceexplorers.com) will present two assemblies. The first, "Motion Commotion," which explorers Newton's three laws of motion will be for grades K-4 and the second, "Crazy Chemistry," which focuses on the basics of Chemistry will be for grades 5-8. The assemblies will kick-off the school's new after-school science club.

St. Dorothy Parish School - 1225 Burmont Road, Drexel Hill, Delaware County (610-789-4100)
9 a.m. - Students are welcome to invite their grandparents and/or a special person to school for the day. As part of the Grandparents and Special Persons Day, a prayer service will be held, followed by a reception, which includes a performance of patriotic songs by 5th and 6th grade students.

St. Joseph Parish School - 502 Woodlawn Avenue, Collingdale, Delaware County (610-586-0356)
9:30 a.m. - Police, firefighters and service members will be honored during a Liturgy. They will be presented with 'thank you' messages and posters from the children. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall.

Conwell-Egan Catholic High School - 611 Wistar Road, Fairless Hills, Bucks County (215 945-6200)
10:15 a.m. - Students from Archangels' Academy, School of Special Education, will be invited to attend mass at Conwell-Egan Catholic High School. Following mass, light refreshments will be served in the school cafeteria, giving Conwell-Egan Catholic High School and Archangels' Academy students the opportunity to get to know one another.

St. Francis of Assisi Parish School - 601-A Buttonwood Street, Norristown, Montgomery County (610-272-0501)
1:30 p.m. - Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will bless the school's new addition for its early education program.

Bishop McDevitt High School - 125 Royal Avenue, Wyncote, Montgomery County (215-887-5575)
7 p.m. - Former Mayor of Boston and U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican, Ray Flynn, will speak to students about his experiences at the Vatican. This event is a part of the school's Golden Anniversary Speaker Series.


Wednesday, January 28, 2009
St. Athanasius-Immaculate Conception School - 7105 Limekiln Pike, Philadelphia (215-424-5045)
10:30 a.m. - Kindergarten teacher Olenka Zajac, a nominee for the NCEA Distinguished Teacher Award, will be honored with a Certificate of Recognition from the NCEA for her contribution to the school over her 22 year career. She will be recognized during the Mass held in celebration of Catholic Schools Week.

Queen of the Universe Parish School - 2477 Trenton Road, Levittown, Bucks County (215-945-1866)
1:00 p.m. - Students will compete in a Penny Race where each class collects pennies and lines them along the floor of the cafeteria. The classroom with the longest line of pennies will win. The money raised will be used to purchase Valentine's Day gifts for patients at Immaculate Heart of Mary Nursing Home.

St. Isidore Parish School - 603 West Broad Street, Quakertown, Bucks County (215-536-6052)
7 p.m. - Students will celebrate their various heritages and cultures during International Night. Parents will provide dishes representing their heritage and students will perform songs and dances from countries around the world.


St. Maria Goretti Parish School - 2980 Cowpath Road, Hatfield, Montgomery County (215-721-9098)
7 p.m. - Sister Joanne Abate, IHM will speak about Cyber Bullying at the Home & School Meeting

Our Lady of Assumption - 135 Fairfield Lane, Strafford, Chester County (610-688-5277)
9:00 a.m. - Pre Kindergarten and Kindergarten classes at the school will be packing shoe boxes full of personal care and entertainment items for the troops currently serving in Iraq. Two of the students have parents currently serving in Iraq, so the items will be shipped to their platoons.

St. Monica Parish School - 601 First Ave., Berwyn, Chester County (610-644-8848)
1:00 p.m. - Kindergarten through fourth grade students will attend a special assembly, Soren Bennick's "The Power of One." The presentation is a series of skits performed by actors who use boxes, colors and masks to vividly portray what bullying is, what can be done about it and how every child has the power to report bullying when they see it.

Thursday, January 29, 2009
Corpus Christi Parish School - 920 Sumneytown Pike, Lansdale, Montgomery County (215-368-0582)
Published author John McGranaghan, will visit the school for the day. He will read his book "Saturn for My Birthday" to the younger children and will speak to the older children about the writing and publishing process. A drawing will take place and six winners will be selected to eat lunch with Mr. McGranaghan in the library.

St. Aloysius Parish School - 220 N. Hanover Street, Pottstown, Montgomery County (215-946-6334)
8:45 a.m. - All students from Kindergarten to eighth grade will present "birthday boxes" to a representative from the North Coventry Food Pantry. The boxes will be given to underprivileged children, and include all of the supplies necessary for a birthday celebration, including disposable cameras so that the recipient can capture their birthday memories.

Immaculate Conception Parish School - 3810 Bristol Oxford Valley Road, Levittown, Bucks County (215-949-2848)
1:15 p.m. - In the spirit of "Service to our Friends," the school will invite students from Archangels' Academy, a school of special education to join them at a Catholic Schools Week dance.

Friday, January 30, 2009
St. Martha Parish School - 11321 Academy Road, Philadelphia (215-632-5546)
8:30 a.m. - A mass will be held honoring two teachers who have each taught for 25 years. Mrs. Joann Kozak has taught for 25 years in Catholic schools, and Mrs. Pat Green has taught in Catholic schools for 34 years - 25 years of which she spent at St. Martha Parish School.

Nativity of Our Lord Parish School - 585 W. Street Road, Warminster, Bucks County (215-675-2820)
9:00 a.m. - Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate Mass in honor of the 50th anniversary of Nativity of Our Lord Parish School. Former faculty, priests and students are invited to attend.

St. Norbert Parish School- 6 Greenlawn Road, Paoli, Chester County (610-644-1670)
9 a.m. - 12 p.m. - A Community Service Fair will be held to teach students about the many careers that involve service to others. The fair will mimic a job fair, and representatives from community service organizations will speak to students. There will be a lecture at 9 a.m., and then the community service fair will begin.

Throughout the Week
Our Lady of Calvary Parish School - 11023 Kipling Lane, Philadelphia (215-637-1648)
Students will receive an "It's Your Serve" card, which instructs them to serve their family, friends, neighbors, community and Jesus. They are asked to perform an act of service their family, friends, neighbors, community and Jesus.

St. Margaret Parish School- 227 N. Narberth Avenue, Narberth, Montgomery County (610-664-2640)
A book drive will be held in each class, and the older students will read the books to the younger students. Afterwards, the books will be donated to Children's Hospital of Pennsylvania.

Assumption B.V.M. Parish School - 55 E. Bristol Road, Feasterville, Bucks County (215-357-5499)
All students will assemble and decorate 'breakfast bags,' which will be given to the Aid for Friends organization.

Lansdale Catholic High School - 700 Lansdale Avenue, Lansdale, Montgomery County (215-362-6160)
Students in the Advanced Computer III course are developing short videos to chronologically document the history of the school. The videos will be shown during the morning broadcast on Lansdale Catholic TV.

St. Christopher Parish School - 13305 Proctor Road, Philadelphia (215-673-5787)
Throughout the week, students at St. Christopher will honor Mrs. Madeline Reid, a teacher at Saint Christopher who passed away last year. In Mrs. Reid's honor, students will hold a book drive to benefit PHILADELPHIA READS.

St. Thomas Aquinas Parish School - 601 Bristol Pike, Croydon, Bucks County (215-785-1130)
Throughout the week, students are collecting coloring books and crayons to donate to St. Jude's Hospital, along with handmade cards.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Reverend Louis J. Kolenkiewicz, Parochial Administrator of Our Lady of Peace Parish in Milmont Park, Delaware County, announced at Masses this past weekend that the recommendation to close the parish elementary school at the end of the 2008-2009 school year has been accepted by Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia. The pastor informed faculty members and school families this weekend as well. The school will close in June 2009.

"I am aware of the sadness that this decision will bring to many," said Father Kolenkiewicz. "The decision to close the school, although most difficult, is unfortunately necessary. Despite the best efforts and good intentions of many committed people and after several years of uncertainty, it is time to make the responsible decision to do all that we can to ensure that our children receive the best Catholic education possible."

Students from Our Lady of Peace Parish School will attend Notre Dame de Lourdes Parish School in Swarthmore, located less than two miles from Our Lady of Peace Parish School, beginning in September 2009. Notre Dame de Lourdes was selected following a survey conducted in 2008 where most parents said that Notre Dame de Lourdes was the parish school where they would most likely send their children.

The decision to close Our Lady of Peace School was based on drastically declining enrollment. In 2000-2001 enrollment was 262. In 2003-2004 it was 227. In this 2008-2009 school year the enrollment is 121 (pre-k through 8th). There are 81 students in grades 1 through 8 with just 4 students in the third grade. This steep decline has required that parents pay tuition of $3,700, which is the highest tuition among parishes in the region. Despite continued efforts from leadership of both the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and Our Lady of Peace Parish, parish officials recognized that sustaining the school was not a tenable option.

In accepting the recommendation for closure Cardinal Rigali said, "I understand this is a very painful time for the school community of Our Lady of Peace and that the past several years have brought uncertainty about the future. This school has a long and proud tradition of providing Catholic education to thousands of families. It is never easy to make a change of this nature and I recognize that no one wants to see a parish school close. I am grateful to all of those involved who were so supportive of Our Lady of Peace Parish School and pray that they find comfort in their faith during this time of transition."

Cardinal Rigali also expressed his gratitude to the parochial administrator and all of those who spent so much time and effort working on behalf of the parish and school. "I am grateful for the leadership of Father Kolenkiewicz and Father George A. Majoros, Regional Vicar for Delaware County, and their unwavering commitment to determine the best possible outcome for the Our Lady of Peace Parish community, for the school families and most of all for the young people of the school and their future education. I also express my gratitude to Sr. M. Denise Clifford, SSJ, Principal of Our Lady of Peace Parish School, the Sisters of Saint Joseph, and the lay faculty for their dedication to Our Lady of Peace School and the students in their care. I know that the Office of Catholic Education will do everything possible to ensure that the transition during the coming months is as smooth as possible and that the spiritual and academic needs of our young people remain at the forefront of all planning."

The Archdiocese began working with parish leaders several years ago when enrollment numbers began to indicate that the school's closing was likely. Last year, the parish requested permission for the school to reopen in September 2008 if the enrollment reached 132 students, the same as the previous year. In March 2008, the school reported an enrollment of 128 with the possible registration of two more students. Although short of the goal, Cardinal Rigali gave approval for the school to remain open for the school year 2008-2009. This decision was for the 2008-2009 school year only. Going forward, further review would be necessary in determining the school's future viability.

In the fall of 2008, Father Kolenkiewicz met with the parents of the school children, to apprise them of the current status of the school. At that time, he indicated that he could not foresee the school continuing beyond this current academic year. In December 2008, Father Kolenkiewicz sought permission for the school's closure at the end of the current year. Cardinal Rigali accepted the recommendation in January 2009.

Father Kolenkiewicz said, "I fully intend to work with the parish organizations to formulate plans so that we can fittingly celebrate and express gratitude for the great blessing which the school has been to this parish, the dedicated ministry of the Sisters of Saint Joseph and the wonderful lay teachers who have served our school and to recognize the generosity of our parishioners and school parents who sacrificed so much for so many years to support the school."

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia has partnered with Powerful Learning Practice (PLP), a professional development initiative that facilitates immersion experiences for teachers in 21st Century learning, technology and teaching methods. Each of the 20 high schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia has a team of educators and teachers participating in this 7-month program -- a grand total of 140 participants.

At the upcoming culminating event in April 2009, all Archdiocesan PLP members will share their collaborative projects with educators from all schools. These projects will also be shared online via a PLP virtual learning community, where teachers can share resources for implementing the innovative collaborative potential of emerging social web technologies at the 20 Catholic high schools throughout the Archdiocese.

Eleven educators have been named "21st Century Fellows" through the program. These fellows act to foster communications among participants. The 21st Century Fellows from the Archdiocese include: Joe Konecki and Ed Allen of Cardinal O'Hara High School; Evan Ortiz of Conwell-Egan High School; Mary Kirby and Mickey Beachy of J.W. Hallahan Catholic Girls' High School; Jim Greene of Father Judge High School for Boys; Steve Kerwin of Bishop Shanahan High School; Laura O'Reilly of St. Pius X High School; Gina Craig of Northeast Catholic High School; Bobbi Everling of St. Hubert Catholic High School for Girls and Nancy Caramanico, Director of Technology, K-12, Archdiocese of Philadelphia's Office of Catholic Education.

The aforementioned educators began the Powerful Learning Practice program with a two-day educational workshop entitled "21st Century Learning Kick-Off," designed to teach Fellows how to incorporate 21st century learning strategies into an educational curriculum. The program is run by international renowned educational speakers Will Richardson and Sheryl Nussbaum Beach.

As part of a year-long commitment to Powerful Learning Practice by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the educators are also required to participate in four two-hour online modules, where they will develop a deeper understanding of various Web 2.0 tools -- such as wikis, blogs, multimedia designs and social networking websites - and how to incorporate these tools into the classroom.

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia has been proactively placing a strong emphasis on reaching the 21st Century learner. In September, 1,000 high school teachers from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's 20 Catholic high schools gathered at Bishop Shanahan High School to participate in a day-long
in-service program entitled "Understanding and Educating the 21st Century Learner."

"We continue to demonstrate that we're steadfastly committed to providing the 80,000 students we serve in the Archdiocese with an education that fully prepares them for their futures," said Nancy Caramanico, Director of Technology, K-12, Archdiocese of Philadelphia's Office of Catholic Education. "These emerging technological trends are a large part of that future -- and therefore, we will continue to recognize the influence of technology by ensuring its inclusion in our classrooms and encouraging student learning via 21st Century worldwide collaboration tools."

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Parishes of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia have joined Catholics across the nation in a postcard campaign aimed at requesting that legislators oppose The Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) should it be introduced in Congress by the new administration.

In conjunction with a national effort by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), Catholics throughout the Archdiocese are being urged to send postcards to their two United States Senators, Arlen Specter (R) and Robert Casey (D) and their United States Representative. The postcards from constituents respectfully urge the legislators to "Please oppose FOCA, or any similar measure, and retain laws against federal funding and promotion of abortion."

In a September 2008 letter to Congress, Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia and Chairman of the United States Bishops' Committee on Pro-Life Activities, urged all members of Congress "to pledge their opposition to FOCA and other legislation designed to promote abortion, so that we can begin a serious and sincere discussion on how to reduce the tragic incidence of abortion in our society."

The Freedom of Choice Act creates a "fundamental right" to abortion throughout the entire nine months of pregnancy. It would prevent any state or local government from denying or interfering with this "right," would eliminate conscience clause exemptions and would erase the need for parental consent in underage abortions. In addition, passage of FOCA would force tax-payer support for abortion. In short, FOCA would single-handedly overturn 35 years of pro-life laws and policies enacted by the people and their elected representatives. There have been intermittent efforts to pass the Freedom of Choice Act since 1989, but previous attempts were thwarted by widespread opposition. The current postcard campaign is slated for the weekend of January 24-25, 2009 in most parishes.

Cardinal Rigali has called on all Roman Catholics of the Archdiocese and the U.S. to become involved in opposition to FOCA by contacting their legislators during the USCCB postcard campaign. Postcards are available at all parishes in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. "There is one thing absolutely everyone should be able to agree on," Cardinal Rigali wrote in his September 2008 letter to Congress. "We can't reduce abortions by promoting abortion. No one who sponsors or supports legislation like FOCA can credibly claim to be part of a good-faith discussion on how to reduce abortions."

Editor's Note: Anyone seeking to find their U.S. House and/or U.S. Senate representatives by zip code should go to www.congress.org. More information regarding FOCA also is available on the Archdiocese of Philadelphia web site at www.archphila.org and on the USCCB website at www.usccb.org/prolife/issues/FOCA/

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

WHAT: As part of the 2009 Catholic Schools Week celebration, Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will bless St. Francis of Assisi Parish School's new Early Learning Center in Norristown, Montgomery County. The Early Learning Center offers early childhood education for children between six months and four years, and includes bilingual education.

Students, teachers and staff from St. Francis of Assisi Parish School will participate in the blessing ceremony, which includes prayers at the building entrance and the sprinkling of holy water in the building's halls and classrooms. To thank Cardinal Rigali for blessing the new building, St. Francis of Assisi students will present him with a spiritual bouquet-an offering of prayers, sacrifices and devotional acts.

WHEN: Tuesday, January 27, 2009
1:30 p.m. - Prayer service at St. Francis Assisi Church
1:45 p.m. - Blessing ceremony begins at Early Learning Center

WHERE: St. Francis of Assisi Early Learning Center
636 Hamilton Street
Norristown, PA 19401 (Montgomery County)

WHO:

- Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia
- Reverend Vincent F. Welsh, Pastor, St. Francis of Assisi Parish
- Mrs. Constance DiBonaventure, Principal, St. Francis of Assisi Parish School
- Erica Gonzalez, Director, St. Francis Early Learning Center

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

WHAT: The Archdiocese of Philadelphia will honor six remarkable Catholic school graduates with the 2009 Distinguished Graduate Award for their professional and personal accomplishments on Friday, January 30, 2009 at 6 p.m. in the Crystal Tea Room, John Wanamaker Building. Also known as the Archdiocesan Hall of Fame, the Distinguished Graduate Awards have a grand tradition of honoring Catholic school alumni who have not only achieved professional success in their chosen field but also have demonstrated a commitment to living their lives by the Gospel Values that guide and define Catholic education in the Archdiocese. Also expected to attend are Mayor Michael A. Nutter, Police Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey and Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers.

The six individuals being inducted into the Archdiocesan Hall of Fame are:

Joseph A. Fitzmyer, S.J. - Professor Emeritus, Department of Biblical Studies, Catholic University of America
St. Hugh of Cluny Parish School - 1934; St. Joseph's Preparatory School - 1938

Dennis M. O'Brien - Former Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Our Lady of Calvary Parish School - 1966; Archbishop Ryan High School - 1970

Mary Lou Quinlan -Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Just Ask a Woman
St. Helena Parish School, Philadelphia - 1967; Cardinal Dougherty High School - 1971

Ellen Hanway & H. Edward Hanway, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, CIGNA Corporation
Ellen M. Hanway: Nativity B.V.M. Parish School, Media - 1965; Notre Dame High School, Moylan - 1969
H. Edward Hanway: Nativity B.V.M. Parish School, Media - 1966; Cardinal O'Hara High School - 1970

Sergeant Patrick McDonald - Philadelphia Police Officer (posthumously)
Christ the King Parish School - 1992; Archbishop Ryan High School - 1996
Representing all those who dedicate their lives to making Philadelphia a better place to live.

WHEN/WHERE: Friday, January 30, 2009, 6 p.m. The Crystal Tea Room - Wanamaker Building, Broad and Juniper Streets, Philadelphia

WHO:
- The five honorees and the family of the late Sergeant Patrick McDonald
- Four Auxiliary Bishops of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia

KEY VISUALS:
- A video highlighting the honorees and their accomplishments
- Bishop Joseph P. McFadden will bestow the awards upon the honorees

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Philadelphia Catholic schools product Rich Gannon, CBS-TV commentator and the National Football League's Most Valuable Player in 2002, and Marcus Grodi, EWTN host, will headline an impressive lineup of speakers for the first Men's Spirituality Conference to be held March 7, 2009 at Cardinal O'Hara High School.

Gannon is an alumnus of Saint Cecilia Parish School, in the Fox Chase section of Philadelphia, and later starred at quarterback for Saint Joseph's Prep and the University of Delaware before beginning his 18-year NFL career. Gannon resides in the Minneapolis, MN suburbs and is an active leader in his Roman Catholic parish. He will speak on the topic of "The Catholic Faith in My Life's Journey." Grodi, host of the EWTN program "Journey Home," will address "Men and Conversion" and "Spiritual Leadership in the Home." The Conference theme is, "Let us strengthen one another" from Saint Paul's letter to the Romans (14:19).

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate the conference's Closing Mass at 4 p.m.

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director for Communications
215-587-3747

Elementary schools and Archdiocesan high schools located in the city of Philadelphia are closed today. The closure is partially as a result of the snow but also due to the fact that no transportation would be available. The Philadelphia School District is closed and therefore Archdiocesan students would not have bus transportation.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

WHAT: On Friday, February 13, Louise Davis, a descendant of Harriet Tubman, will present a first-person narrative to Conwell-Egan students, faculty and staff for Black History Month. Ms. Davis will entertain and inform her audience members by telling the story of Harriet Tubman's life as an abolitionist, humanitarian and Union spy. Students will gain insight into the Underground Railroad, the Fugitive Slave Law and the U.S. Civil War.

Following the presentation, Ms. Davis will be interviewed by several members of the Conwell-Egan Catholic EAST program, a national educational initiative focused on student-driven service projects using the latest in technology. The students interviewing Ms. Davis are currently working on a video documentary that will explore the history of Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad in Bristol Township.

WHEN: Friday, February 13, 2009 Presentation to begin at 9:00 a.m.


WHERE: Conwell-Egan Catholic High School, 611 Wistar Road Fairless Hills, PA 19030

WHO:
- Louise Davis, Harriet Tubman descendant and local performer
- Conwell-Egan Catholic students, faculty and administration

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

WHAT: Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will visit the 35th District of fallen Officer John Pawlowski at 8:15 a.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2009 to begin a dedicated day of prayer and gratitude across all parish elementary and Archdiocesan high schools in the City of Philadelphia.

At the request of Cardinal Rigali, all Philadelphia Archdiocesan schools will stop classes at 2 p.m. to pray for Officer Pawlowski, the Pawlowski family and all Philadelphia Police Officers. Following the prayers, each student will write a letter or create a card to thank police officers and offer their prayers. 67 elementary and 11 secondary Archdiocesan schools in Philadelphia will participate and pray for the safety and fortitude of the men and women of the Philadelphia police department.

*Media are invited to the below schools to capture students participating in this citywide event.

WHEN & WHERE: Thursday, February 19, 2009

8:15 a.m. Cardinal Rigali to visit the 35th District (5960 Broad Street at Champlost Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19141)

2:00 p.m. All Philadelphia Archdiocesan schools will pray and create cards for the Philadelphia Police Department. Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will lead the prayers at Epiphany of Our Lord Parish School (1248 Jackson St., Philadelphia, PA 19148).

Other possible coverage locations:
- St. Peter the Apostle Parish School (1009 N. 5th St., Philadelphia, PA 19131)
- St. Bridget Parish School (3636 Stanton Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19129)
- St. Helena Parish School (6101 N. 5th St., Philadelphia, PA 19120)
- St. George Parish School (2700 E. Venango St., Philadelphia, PA 19134)
- St. Bernard Parish School (7360 Jackson St., Philadelphia, PA 19136

WHO:
- Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia
- Kindergarten through 8th grade students
- School principals

KEY VISUALS:
- Cardinal Justin Rigali visiting with officers of the 35th District
- Bishop Joseph McFadden praying with the school community of Epiphany of Our Lord Parish School
- Students praying for the officers' safety and strength
- Students writing letters and creating cards to thank the police force
- Interviews with school principals and students

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

St. Charles Borromeo seminarians will take part in the third annual Hoops for Hope charity basketball fundraiser. The "Men in Black," a team composed of seminarians, will take on a local CYO high school basketball team. This game is the kick-off to a weekend long marathon basketball tournament sponsored by St. Dorothy Athletic Association. This is the first year the seminarians will participate.

Contact
Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will be the celebrant and homilist for the annual Mass to honor altar servers from Bucks County, Montgomery County and Philadelphia North Vicariates. More than 1,000 altar servers and their families representing 49 parishes are expected to attend, with 37 priests concelebrating the Mass. Cardinal Rigali will recognize 46 altar servers for their dedicated service to their parish.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Philadelphia -- Citing the immediate and long-term needs of the Catholic Church in Philadelphia, Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, announced that a $200 million capital and endowment campaign, Heritage of Faith ~ Vision of Hope, is underway in the Archdiocese. Cardinal Rigali appeared at a news conference today at Saint Barnabas Parish in Southwest Philadelphia.

"This extraordinary initiative is a direct response to the challenges facing our parishes and Archdiocesan ministries," Cardinal Rigali said. "Because our needs are great, our aim is high. Our plan is to raise at least $200 million to be used exclusively to meet six specific goals: the strengthening of parish life; access to a high-quality Catholic education for children; the restoration of the historic treasure that is the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul; an investment in priestly formation and campus improvements at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary; the pension and health care needs of retired priests, and outreach to our less fortunate brothers and sisters in the region by providing vital human services."

In 2008, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia celebrated its Bicentennial. At the news conference, Cardinal Rigali said that the Jubilee celebration presented an opportunity to assess the most pressing needs and promising opportunities of the Church. Heritage of Faith ~ Vision of Hope was developed as a comprehensive plan to support those charitable, educational and pastoral needs. The Cardinal acknowledged the challenge of a fundraising endeavor during such a troubled economic time. "The economic realities of the present are a cause of anxiety for everyone," Cardinal Rigali said. "Some may argue that now is not a good time for this endeavor. But the needs of the Archdiocese cannot wait for the future. They require our response today. The remarkable early results of Heritage of Faith - Vision of Hope indicate that this is the right response and the right time. I am pleased to announce that $43 million in pledges and gifts already have been received."

Bishop Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, outlined the details of the campaign during the news conference. "Heritage of Faith ~ Vision of Hope is an exceptional priority of the Archdiocese. Each of our 269 parishes will participate, and each will benefit from the campaign," Bishop McFadden said.


Over the next 16 months, parishes will introduce the plan in phases, or 'tracks', that will last about 16 weeks each. Every Catholic household will be asked to prayerfully consider making a sacrificial pledge to Heritage of Faith ~ Vision of Hope. Twelve parishes piloted Heritage of Faith ~ Vision of Hope last fall, including Saint Barnabas Parish, which reached 135 percent of its goal. Collectively, the twelve pilot parishes received $9.5 million in gifts and pledges, exceeding their collective goal by just over $2 million. Currently, 57 parishes have campaigns underway.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

I am filled with great joy upon learning of Archbishop Timothy Dolan's appointment by the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, to shepherd the faithful of the Archdiocese of New York. I offer Archbishop Dolan my warm congratulations and prayerful support and I am certain that the Catholic faithful of New York will grow to know him as an exemplary leader who proclaims the Gospel with an evident love of our Lord Jesus Christ and His Church.

During my tenure as Archbishop of St. Louis, I was fortunate to have then-Bishop Dolan as an auxiliary for a short time and to work closely with him on pastoral matters on a daily basis. I know him as a zealous, humble and enthusiastic Bishop, whose devotion to our faith and ability to communicate the Lord's teachings to all will serve him very well in New York. As Archbishop Dolan prepares to assume his new responsibilities in the Archdiocese of New York, my prayers are with him.

I also offer my fraternal best wishes to Cardinal Edward Egan upon the Holy Father=s acceptance of his resignation. Cardinal Egan has endeavored to be a true servant of the Lord. Cardinal Egan's pastoral care of the Archdiocese of New York has been marked by his love and concern for the lives of the faithful of the Archdiocese.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Most Reverend Joseph R. Cistone, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate Mass and distribute ashes on:

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

WHAT: Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Mary E. Rochford, joined by Archdiocesan students will present Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey with a sampling that represents the more than 20,000 cards and letters created by Catholic elementary and secondary school students across Philadelphia to express gratitude and offer prayers to the Philadelphia Police Department. After presenting the cards and letters to Commissioner Ramsey, students will recite the Police Officer Prayer.

At the request of Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, all Philadelphia Archdiocesan schools stopped classes at 2 p.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2009 to pray for Officer John Pawlowski, the Pawlowski family and all Philadelphia police officers. Following the prayers, each student wrote a letter or created a card to offer their prayers.

WHEN: Thursday, February 26, 2009 at 1:00 p.m.


WHERE: Philadelphia Police Department Headquarters (Auditorium), One Franklin Square (8th and Race Streets), Philadelphia, PA 19106

WHO:
- Mary E. Rochford, Superintendent of Schools, Archdiocese of Philadelphia
- Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey
- Approximately 45 Archdiocesan students from St. Mary Interparochial School, St. Francis Xavier Parish School and John W. Hallahan Catholic Girls' High School

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

The Archdiocesan Office for Youth and Young Adults will celebrate the 16th Annual CYO Hall of Fame Awards Dinner to raise funds for the Office for Youth and Young Adults' programs and to honor adults who espouse the virtues and values of the CYO and the Catholic Church.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Reverend Joseph N. Accardi, Pastor of St. Bernard Parish (Berr-nurd) in Northeast Philadelphia, today announced that the recommendation to close St. Bernard Parish Elementary School in June 2009 has been accepted by Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia. The pastor recently informed St. Bernard parishioners, faculty members and school families that the school will close at the completion of the 2008-09 school year.

"I know that this is extremely painful news for the St. Bernard Parish community," said Father Accardi. "This is not a decision made lightly, it is a decision made responsibly, with vision for the long term so that all children of St. Bernard Parish may continue to receive the highest-quality Catholic education."

Beginning in September 2009, current students from St. Bernard Parish School may attend St. Matthew Parish School at 3040 Cottman Avenue, or St. Dominic Parish School, located at 8510 Frankford Avenue. St. Matthew Parish School is located approximately one mile northwest from St. Bernard Parish, while St. Dominic Parish School is about 1.5 miles northeast from St. Bernard Parish.

The recommendation to close St. Bernard Parish School was rooted in concern over the financial outlook of the parish, which has experienced sharp decline in Mass attendance, administering of sacraments and school enrollment. Among an estimated 585 school-age children that live in St. Bernard Parish, only 34% of these children were enrolled in the parish school during the 2007-08 school year. In 2006, the enrollment at St. Bernard Parish School was 308. In 2007, the enrollment declined to 258 students. This year the enrollment was 202. The forecasted student enrollment for the 2009-2010 school year at St. Bernard Parish School was 177. As a result of this rapid enrollment decrease of more than 40% over three years, the cost of educating each student dramatically ascended from $3,215 per student in 2006-07 to a projected $4,239 per student in 2009-10. Despite continued efforts from leadership of both the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and St. Bernard Parish, parish leaders recognized that sustaining the school was not a tenable option.

In accepting the recommendation for closure Cardinal Rigali said, "I recognize how difficult this decision will be for the St. Bernard Parish community. No one ever wants to see one of our parish schools close. This decision was made with much prayer and consideration for the needs of the parish and the school community. I will keep St. Bernard Parish community close in mind and pray that they find comfort in their faith during this time of transition."

Cardinal Rigali also expressed his gratitude to the pastor and all of those who spent so much time and effort working on behalf of the parish and school. "I thank Father Accardi and Father Joseph Logrip, Regional Vicar for Philadelphia North, for their leadership, strength and determination in recommending the best long-term plan for the St. Bernard Parish community. I also express my gratitude to Mrs. Elaine McDowell, Principal of St. Bernard Parish School, and the faculty and staff for their dedication to the students in their care. We will do everything possible to ensure the smooth transition for St. Bernard's young people and that their spiritual and academic needs remain the first priority."

In the December 2008, Father Accardi and Ms. Mary E. Rochford, Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, met with the parents of St. Bernard Parish School students to apprise them of the current status of the school. At that time, Father Accardi and Ms. Rochford indicated that there were serious concerns regarding the school's viability beyond the 2008-09 academic year. Father Accardi sought permission for the school's closure at the end of the current year from Cardinal Rigali, who accepted the recommendation in February 2009.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia has announced that Saint Martin de Porres Interparochial School in Germantown will change its name in September 2009 and be known as DePaul Catholic School. The new name was chosen to reflect the school's devotion to the philosophies of Saint Vincent de Paul and his patronage for service.

As one of two schools named Saint Martin de Porres within the Archdiocese, the Germantown school was often confused with the Saint Martin de Porres Parish School located just minutes away at 2300 Lehigh Avenue, Philadelphia. After a request to Bishop Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, the school was granted permission to change its name.

"Our new name honors the humble beginning of our school and allows us to truly celebrate the great school that we have become under the guiding legacy of Saint Vincent de Paul," explained Sister Cheryl Ann Hillig, Principal. "And while our name is new, our mission continues -- to provide local children with an excellent education that develops them academically, socially and spiritually."

The former Saint Martin de Porres Interparochial School was established, generously supported and staffed by the Vincentians, a Roman Catholic apostolic community of priests and brothers founded by Saint Vincent de Paul to evangelize the poor. The school currently has a large service-learning component in its academic curriculum and will continue to support this model and related community service projects to honor Saint Vincent de Paul.

For more information about the school, please visit www.smdeporres.org or call 215-842-1266.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will be the principal celebrant and homilist for the 12th annual Migration Mass. The annual Mass celebrates the rich history and diversity among Catholics in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and includes a colorful ethnic procession.

Contact
Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

WASHINGTON-Cardinal Justin Rigali, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee on Pro-Life Activities, today called President Obama's executive order on embryonic stem cell research 'a sad victory of politics over science and ethics.' Under the order, for the first time in U.S. history, federal tax dollars will be used to encourage researchers to destroy live human embryos for stem cell research. Cardinal Rigali also cited a January 16 letter in which Cardinal Francis George, president of the USCCB, urged President-elect Obama not to issue such an order. Cardinal Rigali's statement follows:

President Obama's new executive order on embryonic stem cell research is a sad victory of politics over science and ethics. This action is morally wrong because it encourages the destruction of innocent human life, treating vulnerable human beings as mere products to be harvested. It also disregards the values of millions of American taxpayers who oppose research that requires taking human life. Finally, it ignores the fact that ethically sound means for advancing stem cell science and medical treatments are readily available and in need of increased support.
In his January 16th letter to President-elect Obama, Cardinal George, writing as President of the USCCB, cited three reasons why such destructive research is 'especially pointless at this time':

- -First, basic research in the capabilities of embryonic stem cells can be and is being pursued using the currently eligible cell lines as well as the hundreds of lines produced with nonfederal funds since 2001.
- -Second, recent startling advances in reprogramming adult cells into embryonic-like stem cells - hailed by the journal Science as the scientific breakthrough of the year - are said by many scientists to be making embryonic stem cells irrelevant to medical progress.

- -Third, adult and cord blood stem cells are now known to have great versatility, and are increasingly being used to reverse serious illnesses and even help rebuild damaged organs. To divert scarce funds away from these promising avenues for research and treatment toward the avenue that is most morally controversial as well as most medically speculative would be a sad victory of politics over science.

-If the government wants to invest in hope for cures and promote ethically sound science, it should use our tax monies for research that everyone, at every stage of human development, can live with.'

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will be the celebrant and homilist for the Saint Patrick's Day Observance Mass. Concelebrants of the Mass include Bishop Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, Reverend Christopher Walsh and Reverend Kevin Gallagher, Chaplains for the St. Patrick's Day Observance Association.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will be the celebrant and homilist at the annual Mass for Persons with Disabilities. The Mass is sponsored by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Department of Pastoral Care for Persons with Disabilities, which together with Parishes and affiliated church organizations, is committed in the effort to raise awareness and create access for people with all abilities to the life of the Church. Approximately 1,000 people are expected attend.

Contact
Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

In July 2008 Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, relieved Reverend Gerard J. Hoffman, parochial vicar at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Doylestown, Bucks County, of his assignment pending a formal investigation into an allegation that Father Hoffman sexually abused a minor more than 30 years ago. Since July 2008, Father Hoffman has not been permitted to exercise his ministry publicly, administer any of the Sacraments, wear clerical garb or present himself publicly as a priest.

The Archdiocesan Review Board could not substantiate that allegation. During the course of the investigation, however, the Archdiocese received a second allegation that Father Hoffman had engaged in sexual misconduct more than thirty years ago with someone who was under 18 at the time. After further investigation, the Archdiocesan Review Board advised Cardinal Rigali that the second allegation was substantiated. This misconduct was not related to the initial allegation.

Cardinal Rigali has accepted the Review Board's recommendation and, in accord with the Bishops' Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People has now removed Father Hoffman from ministry by administrative act. The restrictions that were imposed upon Father Hoffman in July 2008 remain in place. Father Hoffman has agreed to accept a supervised life of prayer and penance.

An announcement updating the situation regarding Father Hoffman was made this past weekend at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, where he had been parochial vicar since 2002. An announcement was previously made at this parish in July 2008 when Father Hoffman was relieved of his assignment.

Father Hoffman was ordained in 1973. Since that time he has served in the following parishes/schools: St. Teresa of Avila, Valley Forge (1973-1976); Cathedral Basilica of SS. Peter and Paul (1976); St. Basil the Great, Kimberton (1976-1977); St. Isaac Jogues, Wayne (1977-1988); King of Peace, Philadelphia (1988-1989); St. John the Evangelist, Philadelphia (1989-1990); Chaplain and faculty member, Saint John Neumann High School, Philadelphia (1988-1990); Faculty, Saint Pius X High School, Pottstown, (1976 to 1988); Principal, St. Pius X High School, Pottstown (1990-1993) and Principal, Roman Catholic High School, Philadelphia (1993-2002).

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia recognizes that this public notice may be painful. If anyone needs assistance please contact the Victim Assistance Office for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia at 1-888-800-8780.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Boys and Girls varsity basketball teams are first Philadelphia Catholic League teams to win PIAA Titles

WHAT: Archbishop Carroll High School will hold a recognition ceremony on Friday, March 27 at 12:30 p.m. to celebrate the dual state championships of the boys and girls varsity basketball teams. Both teams made history by becoming the first Philadelphia Catholic League teams to win their respective PIAA State Championship titles. The Carroll boys basketball team defeated Greensburg-Salem, making the Patriots the first District 12 team to win a Class AAA state title. The Lady Patriots basketball team clinched the championship in a victory over Lampeter-Strasburg. The celebration will feature a parade around campus before the recognition ceremony in the school gymnasium.

WHEN:
Friday, March 27, 2009
12:30 p.m.

WHERE: Archbishop Carroll High School
211 Matsonford Road
Radnor, PA 19087 (Delaware County)

WHO:
-- Entire Archbishop Carroll school community
-- The history-making Patriots and Lady Patriots State Champion Basketball teams
-- The Honorable William F. Adolph Jr., State House of Representatives, 165th Legislative District

KEY VISUALS:
-- Championship parade on the Archbishop Carroll High School campus
-- Individual team members and coaches being recognized in the gymnasium
-- The entire Archbishop Carroll school community celebrating the teams

###

ABOUT THE ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia has 269 parishes serving almost 1.5 million Catholics. Currently there are 182 parish and regional elementary schools, 20 high schools and five schools of special education in the Archdiocese, located throughout Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. For more information about the schools of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia please visit www.keepingfaithinmind.org.

Contact: Michelle Bauer
Account Executive
Vault Communications
610-455-2747
[email protected]

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director
215-587-3747

WHAT: More than 475 students from Archdiocesan Schools will perform at the Kimmel Center's Verizon Hall on Tuesday, March 31, 2009 in the Monsignor Louis A. D'Addezio Concert of Excellence. This year's concert has been renamed in honor of Monsignor D'Addezio and his selfless dedication to nurturing the arts in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's schools. The concert features musicians in the Archdiocesan bands, choruses and orchestras performing selections from American folk music, spirituals, musical theater and movies fitting within this year's theme -- "A Tribute to the Music of America."

The evening will begin with performances by the Archdiocesan Elementary Jazz Band and the Secondary All-Catholic Jazz Band in the Commonwealth Plaza at the Kimmel Center. The program will feature music selections performed by the Archdiocesan Elementary Honors Band; Archdiocesan Elementary Honors Chorus; Archdiocesan Elementary Honors String Orchestra; All-Catholic Concert Band; All-Catholic Chorus; and All-Catholic Orchestra. The One Flock Choir, comprised of 50 talented students from the five special education schools of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, also will perform. The evening will conclude with a finale in which all 475 students will perform "The Battle Hymn of the Republic."

Tickets to the concert can be purchased in person at the Kimmel Center box office, online at www.kimmelcenter.org, or by calling Ticket Philadelphia at (215) 893-1999.

WHEN: Tuesday, March 31, 2009
7:30 p.m.

WHERE: The Kimmel Center, Verizon Hall
260 South Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102

WHO:
" 475 Catholic school student performers
" Monsignor Louis A. D'Addezio, Director, Office for Special Projects, Archdiocese of Philadelphia
" Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop, Archdiocese of Philadelphia
" Dr. Richard McCarron, Secretary for Catholic Education, Archdiocese of Philadelphia

KEY VISUALS:
" Performances by Archdiocesan student groups, including the All-Catholic Concert Band, Chorus, Orchestra and Jazz Band
" A finale that includes all of the student groups performing together
" Monsignor Louis A. D'Addezio being honored for his dedication to the arts in Catholic schools

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Assoc. Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Historic Organ at St. Malachy's was Built by the Grandfather of Jack Norworth- The Man That Wrote 'Take Me Out to the Ball Game'


On Sunday, April 5 at 4 pm, St. Malachy's Church and School, located at 1428 North 11th Street, will proudly host the first-annual 'Take Me Out to the Ball Game' concert to celebrate St. Malachy's historic connection to baseball's greatest tune and raise money for the restoration of the St. Malachy's historic 140-year-old Knauff organ. The concert is free and open to all members of the public.

The concert will take place the same day as the World Champions Philadelphia Phillies opening day. The vaudeville-style concert will be led by Tim Wiles, Director of Research at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, and will feature a variety of performances from local entertainers and St. Malachy's School students.

'Take Me Out to the Ball Game' was written in 1908 by Philadelphia native Jack Norworth. The man who built St. Malachy's organ-and many others-was Henry Knauff, the grandfather of Jack Norworth. Knauff was a master organ builder who brought fame and esteem to Philadelphia with his innovative organ designs. The connection between the song and St. Malachy's was uncovered by Wiles as he conducted research for his book 'Baseball's Greatest Hit'.

The April 5 'Take Me Out to the Ball Game' concert will feature swinging jazz sax by David Demsey of William Paterson University, a rendition of 'Casey at the Bat' by Wiles, barbershop quartet 'Born to Sing', seventh-grade student and classical pianist extraordinaire Marvin Brown and the St. Malachy's Choir. The Abbott and Costello routine "Who's on First" will be performed by local thespians Tony Braithwaite and Joe Mallon.

St. Malachy's students will be on-hand to greet concert visitors and will don historic baseball uniforms that were used by a former St. Malachy's baseball team. Dozens more students will attend the concert to participate in the musical performances and display the baseball and Phillies inspired artwork that they have created in anticipation of the concert.

The goal of the concert is to begin raising the $300,000 that will be needed to restore the historic St. Malachy's organ. The organ suffered damage in a 1997 collapse of the church ceiling. For years, dedicated volunteers have worked to clean, repair and restore the organ, but the $300,000 will be needed to fully return the organ to its original glory.

The concert will last for two hours. A reception and silent auction featuring historic baseball and music items, dinner packages and vacation offerings will immediately following the concert. Wiles will be on-hand to sign copies of his book 'Baseball's Greatest Hit'. $5 from each book sale will benefit the organ fund.

St. Malachy's Church and School is supported by the BLOCS (www.blocs.org) organization. BLOCS, led by a dynamic group of Philadelphia business leaders, raises funds so that children of all races and religions can attend Catholic schools, regardless of income level. BLOCS supports and applauds St. Malachy as both a neighborhood and city wide resource.

Tim Wiles, performers, members of the St. Malachy's Church and School community and BLOCS members are available for interviews prior to and on the day of the Take Me Out to the Ball Game Concert. All media inquiries should be directed to Holly Mantle at BLOCS at 215-825-9633 or [email protected]

For inquiries about the concert and giving options for the organ fund, please contact Sister Cecile Reiley at St. Malachy's at 215-763-1305 or [email protected].

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

St. Benedict Parish School in East Germantown and St. Ann Parish School in Bristol Borough, Bucks County to Close in June 2009

Reverend George B. Moore, Pastor of St. Benedict Parish in East Germantown and Reverend James R. Day, O.SS.T, Pastor of St. Ann Parish in Bristol Borough, Bucks County today announced that their recommendations to close their respective parish elementary schools have been accepted by Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia. Both Father Moore and Father Day recently informed their parishioners, faculty members and school families that their parish school would close at the completion of the 2008-09 school year.

Saint Benedict Parish School, 1919 Medary Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19141
The recommendation to close Saint Benedict was made after a thorough study, led by Father Moore and the Saint Benedict Parish Finance Committee and Parish Pastoral Council. St. Benedict Parish School has experienced steady decline in the school's enrollment that continues to impact negatively the financial health of both the school and the parish. This year, the total student enrollment was 164. The forecasted student enrollment for the 2009-2010 school year at St. Benedict Parish School was 150. The cost per student next year would have been $4,000.

Saint Ann Parish School, 418 Jefferson Avenue, Bristol, PA 19007
Since the year 2000-2001 St. Ann Parish School has also experienced steady decline in the school's enrollment that has dramatically increased the cost of educating each pupil and forced an increased tuition burden on St. Ann parish families. Last year during the 2007-2008 academic year both the Finance Council and the Parish Pastoral Councils met to discuss options, and brought this information to the parish and school families. Much effort was made to increase enrollment, broaden the fundraising and market the school; nevertheless, during the 2008-09 school year, the total student enrollment decreased to 125. The actual tuition cost per child was projected to be close to $5000 for next year. It was recommended that the school families bear more of the actual cost per pupil, since the parish could not increase its already significant subsidy. Following an announcement that set 2009-10 yearly tuition at $4,000 per parishioner and $5,000 per non-parishioner, only five students re-registered for St. Ann's Parish School for the 2009-10 school year.

In accepting the recommendations for closure, Cardinal Rigali said, "I understand and respect that this is extremely painful news for the St. Benedict and St. Ann parish families. These difficult decisions are never made lightly, but always responsibly, with much prayer, analysis and long-term thinking to ensure that an affordable, high-quality Catholic education is within reach for our parents to provide their children. I will keep St. Benedict and St. Ann parish communities close in mind and pray that they find comfort in their faith during this time of transition"

Current St. Benedict and St. Ann's parents will receive assistance from their respective school administrations and the Office of Catholic Education to enroll their children in another nearby Catholic school. The Office of Catholic Education will also assist the teachers in an effort to find teaching positions at other Catholic schools.

Cardinal Rigali also expressed his gratitude to the pastors and all of those who spent so much time and effort working on behalf of the parish and school. "I thank Father Day, Father Moore, Father Joseph Logrip, Regional Vicar for Philadelphia-North, and Reverend Monsignor James Beisel, Regional Vicar for Bucks County, for their fortitude and commitment in recommending the best long-term plan for St. Benedict Parish and St. Ann Parish. I also express my gratitude to Sister Mary Donald, O.SS.T, Principal of St. Ann Parish School, Ms. Lisa McLish, Principal of St. Benedict Parish School, and the faculty and staff of both schools for their continued service to the students in their care. The spiritual and academic needs of these students remain our first priority, and we will do everything possible to help ensure a smooth transition for them."

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

WHAT: Construction of Pope John Paul II High School in Royersford, Montgomery County will reach a milestone on Thursday, April 2 with the completion of steel framing for the new state-of-the-art facility. To commemorate the occasion and mark the fourth anniversary of the death of Pope John Paul II, Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will bless a cross that will be raised over the building to its place of installation on the new school.

At the blessing ceremony, two steel beams will also be presented that have been signed by the freshman and sophomore classes of St. Pius X High School and Kennedy-Kenrick Catholic High School. The beams demonstrate the unity of the two school communities as they prepare to merge into one student body when Pope John Paul II High School opens in September 2010.

WHEN: Thursday, April 2, 2009, 9 a.m.

WHERE: Future Site of Pope John Paul II High School
181 Rittenhouse Road (at S. Township Line Rd.)
Royersford, PA 19468 (Montgomery County)

WHO:
" Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia
" Dr. Richard McCarron, Secretary for Catholic Education, Archdiocese of Philadelphia
" The Honorable Mike Vereb, State House of Representatives, 150th Legislative District
" The Honorable Thomas J. Quigley, State House of Representatives, 146th Legislative District
" Students from St. Pius X High School and Kennedy-Kenrick Catholic High School

KEY VISUALS:
" Cardinal Rigali blessing the cross that will be installed at the new school
" The raising of the cross over the building to where it will be installed
" Presentation of two steel beams that have been signed by the freshman and sophomore classes of Kennedy-Kenrick Catholic High School and St. Pius X High School

###
ABOUT THE ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA
The Archdiocese of Philadelphia has 269 parishes serving almost 1.5 million Catholics. Currently there are 182 parish and regional elementary schools, 20 high schools and five schools of special education in the Archdiocese, located throughout Bucks, Chester , Delaware , Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. For more information about the schools of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia please visit www.keepingfaithinmind.org.

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Assoc. Director for Communications
215-587-3747

HOLY THURSDAY CHRISM MASS - April 9th - 9:40 a.m. Procession / 10:00 a.m. Mass
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Cardinal Justin Rigali is the main celebrant and homilist at the Holy Thursday Mass of Chrism, which commemorates the day on which the priesthood was established. During the Mass, Cardinal Rigali will bless the three oils used in Sacraments: the Oil of Catechumens, used in Baptism; the Oil of the Sick, used in anointing of the sick; and Holy Chrism, used in the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Orders. (mult-box feed)

The Chrism Mass will be streamed live on the Archdiocese of Philadelphia homepage at www.archphila.org. It will also air live on Holy Spirit Radio 1570 AM (WISP) and 1420 AM (WCOJ) and on The Catholic Channel on Sirius 159 and XM 117.

HOLY THURSDAY MASS OF THE LORD'S SUPPER - April 9th - 5:00 p.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Cardinal Justin Rigali is the main celebrant and homilist. This Mass commemorates the Last Supper, during which Christ instituted the sacrament of Holy Eucharist. After the homily, following the example of Christ who washed the feet of the apostles at the Last Supper, the Cardinal will wash the feet of twelve seminarians from St. Charles Borromeo Seminary.
(No mult-box feed)

GOOD FRIDAY - April 10th - 12:00 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Father David Engo, O.F.M.Cap., Parochial Vicar St. John the Evangelist Parish, Philadelphia, will preside during choral meditations, readings and homilies on the Passion of Jesus. (No mult-box feed)

GOOD FRIDAY - April 10th - 3:00 p.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Cardinal Justin Rigali is the celebrant and homilist at the Solemn Liturgy of the Lord's Passion, commemorating the Passion and Death of Jesus Christ. The traditional veneration of the cross, led by Cardinal Rigali, will take place during the liturgy.
(No mult-box feed)

GOOD FRIDAY WAY OF THE CROSS - April 10th - 7:30 p.m.
Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary 100 East Wynnewood Road Wynnewood, Montgomery County
Cardinal Justin Rigali is the celebrant for a Good Friday candlelight procession and devotions of the Way of the Cross on the grounds of Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary in Wynnewood. These devotions will commemorate the tradition of Pope John Paul II in praying the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum in Rome on Good Friday night throughout his Pontificate. Clergy, religious and parishioners in the Archdiocese as well as those of other Christian faiths are invited to join Cardinal Rigali for this public witness to our faith and to make the Way of the Cross part of their devotional life. The Stations of the Cross will take place rain or shine. Parking will be available at Saint Joseph's University (entrance to parking lot is on 54th Street below City Avenue) with shuttle buses to bring participants to the Seminary. If you are planning to attend, please call Kathy Kelley at (215) 965-8280 with the number expected to participate (for planning purposes). (No mult-box feed)

HOLY SATURDAY EASTER VIGIL - April 11th - 8:00 p.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Cardinal Justin Rigali is the celebrant and homilist at the Easter Vigil Mass celebrating the Resurrection of Christ. There are four parts: Light Service (Blessing of the Fire and lighting of the Paschal Candle), Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of Baptism and the Eucharist. After a reflective and intense period of prayer during Lent, Catechumens (those who have not been baptized) and Candidates (those who have been baptized in other faiths) will become full members of the Catholic Church at the Cathedral and parishes throughout the Archdiocese. In 2009, 973 new Catholics will be welcomed into the Church. (No mult-box feed)

EASTER SUNDAY MASS - April 12th - 11:00 a.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Cardinal Justin Rigali is the celebrant and homilist at the Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord. (No mult-box feed)
Other Masses at the Cathedral on Easter Sunday are: 8:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 12:30 p.m.

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate an outdoor candlelight Stations of the Cross on the grounds of Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary on Good Friday. The fourth annual Archdiocesan service commemorates the tradition of Pope John Paul II in praying the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum in Rome on Good Friday throughout his Pontificate. Pope Benedict XVI has continued the tradition as Holy Father. Cardinal Rigali initiated the Way of the Cross in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in 2006.

The Archdiocesan Boy Choir will provide accompaniment along the procession route.

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director for Communications
215-587-3747

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate Mass on Divine Mercy Sunday at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul for the intentions of all those impacted by the recent earthquake in Italy. The Mass will include special intercessory prayers asking for the mercy of God on all those who suffered and died as a result of this earthquake.

The Mass will also be attended by the Italian Ambassador to the United States, Giovanni Castellaneta. All are welcome to attend the Mass.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will be the celebrant and homilist for a prayer service preceding the kick off for the 2009 Catholic Charities Appeal. The Liturgy of the Word will be followed by a reception at The Crystal Tea Room in the Wanamaker Building, Broad and Juniper Streets, Philadelphia. The Catholic Charities Appeal begins throughout parishes in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia on Sunday, May 3, 2009 and continues through May 31, 2009.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

It is most unfortunate that this pseudo-Ordination has occurred within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. I am concerned pastorally for the souls of those involved and for the Catholic faithful who may be confused. Those who present themselves for ordination at such an invalid ceremony - as well as those who falsely claim to be ordaining the women -- are, by their actions, automatically excommunicated from the Church. (General Decree regarding the delict of attempted sacred ordination of a woman, Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, December 19, 2007)

Such a ceremony is in violation of the constant teaching of the Church, based on Scripture and Sacred Tradition. Both clearly indicate that Jesus called only men to follow Him as Apostles, and the Church has always regarded his choice in this matter as normative for all time. Therefore, she has always followed Jesus' example by choosing only men for the ministry of Holy Orders. This teaching has been confirmed by the supreme authority of the Catholic Church as definitive and irreformable. Consequently, the Church is not authorized by Christ to confer Holy Orders upon women, and cannot do so, no matter how ardent a person's desire may be.

All Catholic men and women bring different yet equally valuable gifts to the Church. The Church is strongest when the gifts given by Christ to all her members are celebrated and respected. Our late Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, said, "The presence and the role of women in the life of the Church, although not linked to the ministerial priesthood, remain absolutely necessary and irreplaceable." (Ordinatio Sacerdotalis, 1994).

God's gifts, however, are never given to individuals merely for their own fulfillment, but for the unfolding of his plan of salvation in the Church for the benefit of the whole community of the faithful, and no one's true personal dignity in the Church can be fostered in opposition to the will of Christ Himself. Consequently, such a pseudo-ordination ceremony denigrates the truth entrusted to the Church by Christ Himself, and demonstrates a complete misunderstanding of the respect and dignity accorded to women by Christ and His Church.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will lead a large contingent from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia on the biennial Archdiocesan Pilgrimage to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, May 2, 2009. This year's pilgrimage marks the jubilee year for the shrine in honor of the 50th anniversary of the completion of the great Upper Church.

A special intention offered by Cardinal Rigali and Archdiocesan pilgrims will be "prayer for peace in our city and the Archdiocese, along with prayer for the safety of all those who protect us." Special prayers will be offered for the families of fallen Archdiocesan police officers and military who have given their lives for our protection and freedom. Photographs of police officers killed in the line of duty since the last pilgrimage in 2007 will be carried in the procession.

Cardinal Rigali will be joined by Most Reverend Daniel Thomas and Most Reverend Joseph Cistone, Auxiliary Bishops of Philadelphia; Most Reverend Louis DeSimone, retired Auxiliary Bishop; priests; men and women religious; seminarians from Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, students and parishioners.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Contact
Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will preside over the groundbreaking ceremony of the new Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Buckingham, Bucks County. Rev. Joseph J. Quindlen, Founding Pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, and Reverend Monsignor James D. Beisel, Regional Vicar for Bucks County, will also participate in the blessing ceremony. Officials from the state, Bucks County and Buckingham Township also have been invited.

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director for Communications
215-587-3747

Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will be the main celebrant and homilist at a Mass to honor and celebrate the work of individuals involved in Archdiocesan Parish youth and young adult ministry. Approximately 1000 faithful are expected to participate in the Mass hosted by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's Office for Youth and Young Adults.

Contact
Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will ordain six men to the priesthood who have completed their studies at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary in Wynnewood.

Contact
Dan Skalski
St. Charles Seminary Program Director
610-785-6219

The Rev. Mr. Anthony T. Rossi, 27, son of John and Mary Rossi, will be ordained to the priesthood by Cardinal Justin Rigali on

Contact
Dan Skalski
St. Charles Seminary Program Director
610-785-6219

The Rev. Mr. Jeffrey M. Rott, 30, son of Mark and Rachele Rott, will be ordained to the priesthood by Cardinal Justin Rigali on

Contact
Dan Skalski
St. Charles Seminary Program Director
610-785-6219

The Rev. Mr. John Weber, 27, son of Robert and Regina Weber, will be ordained to the priesthood by Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, on

Contact
Dan Skalski
St. Charles Seminary Program Director
610-785-6219

The Rev. Mr. Jonathan Dalin, 36, son of Thomas and Christine Dalin, will be ordained to the priesthood by Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, on

Contact
Dan Skalski
St. Charles Seminary Program Director
610-785-6219

The Rev. Mr. Michael Speziale, 25, son of Frank and Linda Speziale, will be ordained to the priesthood by Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, on

Contact
Dan Skalski
St. Charles Seminary Program Director
610-785-6219

The Rev. Mr. Richard Smith, 26, son of James and Susan Smith, will be ordained to the priesthood by Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, on

Contact
Dan Skalski
St. Charles Seminary Program Director
610-785-6219

WHEN: Saturday May 16, 2009 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Holy Innocents Beacon Center , 4251 L Street, Philadelphia.

WHAT: The 10 Out of School Time Programs (OST) of Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia has sponsored a 'Festival of the Arts'. Students in grades K - 8th from the 10 programs located all throughout the City of Philadelphia will be presenting a wide array of art work that they have been working on diligently all year long that includes a huge exhibit of photography, paintings, and sculptures. The event will also showcase lively dance performances ranging from salsa, hip-hop, cheerleading and drill teams.

WHO: Out of School Time (OST) students, teachers, family members and community residents are invited.

WHERE: Holy Innocents OST Program - 4251 L Street, Philadelphia PA 19124

WHY: Catholic Social Services operates ten Out of School Time (OST) programs in Philadelphia, serving more than 2,500 at-risk children and youth each year. In addition to academic support, OST programs provide enrichment and recreational opportunities for children, grades K-12. Art, dance, drama, music, sports and exercise are just some of the activities integrated within the curriculum, encouraging children and youth to enhance their skills, build self-confidence and develop relationships

Contact
James Kerrigan
OST Administrator
267-236-2417

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, announces that Pope Benedict XVI has appointed Most Reverend Joseph R. Cistone, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, as the sixth Bishop of the Diocese of Saginaw, Michigan.

Bishop Cistone is a native of Philadelphia whose home parish was Our Lady of Consolation in the Tacony section of the city. He has been Vicar for Administration and Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia since 1998. He currently oversees the Secretariat for Catholic Human Services and the Secretariat for Temporal Services for Cardinal Rigali and has pastoral care for parishes in the Philadelphia - South Region as well as a portion of Delaware County.

Cardinal Rigali said, "It is with great joy that I announce Bishop Cistone's appointment by Pope Benedict XVI as Bishop of the Diocese of Saginaw, Michigan. With this appointment the Holy Father demonstrates his great trust and confidence in Bishop Cistone to carry his love of the Church with him to the faithful of Saginaw. We celebrate this announcement for all of those eagerly awaiting Bishop Cistone's arrival in his new Diocese but at the same time we will miss his wisdom, assistance and faithful service here in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. In the 34 years since his Ordination, he has ministered with great pastoral care and commitment. Always joyful in his priesthood, Bishop Cistone has shared generously shared his administrative gifts and has served with unwavering devotion.

I am grateful to Bishop Cistone for his constant willingness to serve the Church of Philadelphia and for his assistance to me as Vicar for Administration and his pastoral care of the parishes in his episcopal region. I know that I am joined by my fellow bishops, priests, deacons, men and women religious and all the faithful of the Archdiocese in offering Bishop Cistone my warmest congratulations. We join together in offering our prayers that God will watch over Bishop Cistone and bless him as he shepherds his new Diocese."

Bishop Cistone is in Saginaw, Michigan today and is holding a news conference. He will be installed as the sixth Bishop of the Diocese of Saginaw, Michigan on Tuesday, July 28, 2009, the fifth anniversary of his Episcopal Ordination. Bishop Cistone said in a statement, "As I did five years ago at the announcement of my appointment as an auxiliary bishop, I again call upon Mary, our Mother, Saint John Neumann and Saint Katharine Drexel to intercede for me to Jesus Christ our Lord that I may be a good and holy bishop, generous and kind to those in my care, faithful to the Word of God and the Magisterium, and always open to the inspiration of the Holy Spirit."

Bishop Cistone also said, "It is both humbling and exciting to be given the opportunity to serve God's people as a diocesan bishop. It even occurred to me that I will no longer have a titular see, but that my personal coat of arms will be joined to that of the Diocese of Saginaw, expressing our oneness in faith and mission. Having been in administration of a large archdiocese for 16 years, I fully appreciate the responsibilities and challenges which await me here in Saginaw. At the same time, I have also experienced the tremendous gift of God's providence and love which the bishop is blessed to share with his people. I am respectful of this new relationship with the good people of the Diocese of Saginaw and, with the grace of God, will do my best to lead and serve this flock as the Lord intends."

Cardinal Rigali will lead Solemn Evening Prayer as the Archdiocese of Philadelphia bids farewell to Bishop Cistone on Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at 5:00 p.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. A reception will follow. All are welcome to attend.

Biographical Information:
Joseph R. Cistone was born in Philadelphia in 1949, the son of Daniel A. and Josephine R. (Altomare) Cistone, Sr. He has two brothers, Daniel and Anthony. He attended Our Lady of Consolation Parish Elementary School and is a 1967 graduate of Father Judge High School. He entered Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary and was ordained in 1975. Father Cistone served as parochial vicar in the following parishes: Epiphany of Our Lord, Philadelphia; Saint Jerome, Philadelphia; Saint Jude, Chalfont; Saint Francis of Assisi, Norristown; Saint Bernard, Philadelphia. He served as Dean of Formation for the Theology Division, Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary. He was appointed Vicar for Administration and Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in February 1998 and named an Honorary Prelate (Monsignor) by Pope John Paul II in April 1998.

Monsignor Cistone was Ordained to the Episcopacy by Cardinal Justin Rigali at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul on July 28, 2004. Bishop Cistone serves on the following Committees of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops: Committee for Protection of Children and Young People; Cultural Diversity in the Church; Subcommittee for African-American Affairs and Committee on Budget and Finance.

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Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Reverend Charles Newman, O.F.M., the former president of Archbishop Ryan High School, was sentenced today to three to six years in state prison, followed by ten years probation, for theft of funds from the school. The school's current president, Mr. Michael McArdle, read the following statement in court today:


Your Honor:

My name is Mike McArdle and I am the president of Archbishop Ryan High School. I want to thank you for this opportunity to address the Court and describe what a terrible toll Father Newman's actions have taken on our school community. On behalf of Archbishop Ryan High School and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, please allow me to begin by offering condolences to the family of Arthur Baselice III. Their loss is unimaginable. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Baselices as they endure this tragedy.

The faculty and staff of Archbishop Ryan High School strive on a daily basis to provide the most supportive spiritual and educational environment for our students. Parents entrust their children to us, and in return they expect that we will provide a high-quality academic experience in a Catholic setting that promotes social justice and teaches the Good News of Jesus Christ.

That trust was violated by the fraud and sexual abuse perpetrated by Father Charles Newman, O.F.M., former president and teacher at Archbishop Ryan High School and treasurer at the Franciscan faculty house. That a man of faith and a school leader would engage in such unlawful and immoral actions has caused irreparable harm.

Father Newman took advantage of the trust generously given to him over the years by the Archbishop Ryan faculty, staff, administration, students and alumni. As a result of the fraudulent use of funds, a number of families did not enroll their children and donors withheld their support. The work of rebuilding trust and restoring the school's reputation is still ongoing. As we now know, Father Newman's betrayal was not limited to the fraudulent use of funds, but was part of a much greater tragedy --- sexual abuse of minors.

The Mission of the school is to educate our students through a comprehensive curriculum within a Catholic setting. United in faith and goals, the faculty endeavors to teach as Jesus did so that our young people become contributing members in the communities of faith, of knowledge, of service. Father Newman did great damage to that mission; he represents the polar opposite of what Archbishop Ryan High School stands for in educating our students.

The damage is deep. Archbishop Ryan has worked hard to rebuild trust in the wake of this tragedy. In 2007, the Director of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office for Child and Youth Protection and I sent a letter to tens of thousands of alumni to offer assistance to any other possible victims of sexual abuse. We sincerely wish that any other victims will seek help by contacting their local police or the Archdiocese's victim assistance program.

We will not allow one former administrator's criminal actions to define us. Through our faith in Jesus Christ we pray for healing and continue to find hope in our faculty, school families, supporters and most of all, our students.

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Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

"With great joy I received the news of the appointment by Pope Benedict XVI of Bishop-elect John Barres as the fourth Bishop of Allentown. I warmly welcome Bishop-elect Barres to the Province of Philadelphia, which is composed of the dioceses of the State of Pennsylvania. I am confident that he will be warmly welcomed by the clergy, religious and faithful of the Diocese of Allentown as their new shepherd. I assure him of my fraternal solidarity and prayerful support as he prepares for his Ordination as a Bishop on July 30."

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Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director
215-587-3747

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director
215-587-3747

Charles H. Ramsey, Commissioner of Police for the City of Philadelphia, has been selected to receive the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul Keys & Sword Award in recognition of extraordinary commitment and selfless dedication to serving others as well as the community in general. This award acknowledges one whose actions reflect the Gospel values of faith, selfless service, personal sacrifice, respect and valor. Commissioner Ramsey will receive the award at a luncheon on June 28, 2009 at the Sheraton Hotel. Proceeds from the event will be placed in the "Keys & Sword Fund" which was established in 2008 to foster the Sacred Music Program, Visitors Programs and to strengthen understanding of the artistic and historical significance of the Cathedral to the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the City of Philadelphia.

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Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director
215-587-3747

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, announced at a news conference at the Archdiocesan Office Center in Philadelphia this morning that Pope Benedict XVI has appointed Reverend Monsignor Timothy C. Senior as an Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, assigning him the Titular See of Floriana.
Bishop-elect Senior, age 49, is a native of North Wales, Montgomery County. He is a graduate of Lansdale Catholic High School and Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary in Wynnewood and was ordained a priest in 1985. Bishop-elect Senior serves as the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Vicar for Clergy.

Cardinal Rigali said, "Bishop-elect Senior brings to his new role notable administrative gifts and a tireless work ethic. At the same time, those who know him appreciate his priestly heart, his wise counsel, his keen intelligence and his prayerful serenity. "

Family members, brother priests, friends and colleagues attended the news conference to hear the announcement. In his remarks, Bishop-elect Senior said, "I love being a priest! As a priest, I have encountered the abiding and irresistible love of God drawing me ever more deeply into relationship with Him. In my life as a priest, I have been given opportunities to grow and to serve that I could not have imagined or planned for myself. The life of a priest is challenging and fulfilling in countless and surprising ways. I am confident that my future ministry as a bishop will be the same. I thank God today for the grace of perseverance and I pray for the ever deepening desire to do His will and to give my life completely in the service of His Church."

During his twenty-four years as a priest, Bishop-elect Senior has served the Church in a number of capacities. For three years he was parochial vicar at Assumption Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Feasterville, Bucks County. For seven years he served as Secretary for Catholic Human Services, a vast, mission-based organization that has 4500 employees. Within CHS is Catholic Health Care Services and Catholic Social Services -- the largest private provider of social services in Pennsylvania. He is a classically trained pianist who holds a Master's Degree in Social Work and an MBA from Boston College.

In 2004, Monsignor Senior was appointed to his current position as Vicar for Clergy. He also serves as Chaplain for Divine Providence Village, a residential program for developmentally disabled women, and he celebrates Mass on weekends at St. John Chrysostom Parish in Wallingford, Delaware County.

At today's news conference Cardinal Rigali said, "For five years Bishop-elect Senior has demonstrated his constant pastoral concern for his brother priests and worked tirelessly to put into place programs for ongoing priestly spiritual formation as well as wellness programs for priests. Bishop-elect Senior has collaborated with me during my five years as Archbishop of Philadelphia and I have seen first-hand his devotion not only for his brother priests, but to the faithful of the entire Archdiocese. He is an exemplary priest with a great love for the Church. I know that the commitment that he has demonstrated for the faithful of the Philadelphia region will only grow as he assists me in ministering to the Archdiocese of Philadelphia."

Cardinal Rigali will ordain Bishop-elect Senior to the episcopacy on Friday, July 31, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Philadelphia.

Biographical Information:

Timothy C. Senior was born on March 22, 1960 to the late James Harwood Senior and to Elise Rothwell Senior. He is the youngest of three children. He is a graduate of St. Rose of Lima Parish School in North Wales and is a 1977 graduate of Lansdale Catholic High School, for which he later authored the Lansdale Catholic alma mater. He graduated from Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania and was ordained a priest in 1985.

He earned a Masters of Divinity and Master of Arts in Theology from Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary, Wynnewood, PA in 1988, served as an assistant pastor at Assumption Blessed Mary Parish in Feasterville, Bucks County from 1985 to 1988. He taught religion at Archbishop Kennedy High School for one year before pursuing full-time graduate studies at Boston College. After earning his Masters in Social Work and Masters in Business Administration from Boston College in 1992, Monsignor Senior served as Deputy Secretary for Catholic Human Services from 1992 until 1997 when he was appointed Secretary. In that role, he had the responsibility for the governance and operation of the network of Catholic health care and social services ministries sponsored by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

In 1998, he was named Chaplain to His Holiness, Pope John Paul, II, with the title "Monsignor." In 2004, he was named Vicar for Clergy by Cardinal Justin Rigali, and in 2005, was named a Prelate of Honor by the late Pope John Paul II.

Bishop-elect Senior resides at Divine Providence Village in Springfield, Delaware County, PA, a residential program for developmentally disabled adult women, where he also serves as chaplain to the residents.

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Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

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Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

John W. Hallahan High School will kick off its summer with an innovative Online Summer Reading Program, with 150 students using social media, such as blogs, wikis and forums to meet their summer goals to read and achieve. Hallahan is the first school in the Archdiocese to implement such a program. The all-girls high school will serve as a model to encourage other schools to communicate using online tools over the summer.

Hallahan students will be given a pre-determined list of books to read during the summer. Teacher moderators will use social media to provoke discussions, answer questions and guide and engage the students during their reading journeys.

"This is a wonderful program which really engages Hallahan students on a different level during summer," say Michelle Beachy, Assistant Principal of Academic Affairs. "In the past, summer reading programs were merely discussed upon returning to school in the fall. With the use of Web 2.0, we can maximize the learning process of a reading program, engage the students in discussions and continue classroom work from our homes during summer months."

The Online Summer Reading Program was developed by Hallahan as a result of the Archdiocese's participation in Powerful Learning Practice (PLP). PLP is a professional development initiative that facilitates immersion experiences for teachers in 21st Century learning, technology and teaching methods. Each of the 20 high schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia has a team of educators and teachers participating in the PLP program.

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Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

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Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director
215-587-3747

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Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

WEST CHESTER, Pa. - Few would doubt that today's teenagers face extraordinary pressure to become sexually active. With permissive mores dominating the airwaves and high-school lunchroom conversations, young Catholics are surrounded by messages that challenge their faith and lead them to places that many do not want to go, according to popular chastity educator and author Jason Evert.

"I've met countless young people who, in their heart of hearts, do not want to follow the call of the culture and become sexually active, but they feel ill-equipped to respond to the challenge," explains Evert, who speaks to more than 100,000 teenagers each year, and is a co-author of the popular Theology of the Body for Teens program. "I believe Pope John Paul II's Theology of the Body was given to us for times such as this because it offers a unique, new 'language' that absolutely resonates with people, especially our teens."

"The Theology of the Body is especially important for teens who are thinking every day about their bodies and souls as they search for meaning in their lives," explains Brian Butler, a specialist in adolescent education and a co-author of Theology of the Body for Teens with Jason and Crystallina Evert. "This program helps them to understand the significance of their sexuality and the purpose of their lives by presenting the truth of God's life-giving and liberating love."

Summer Sessions Offered to Area Teens

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia's Office for Youth and Young Adults, together with Generation Life, will be presenting the Theology of the Body for Teens program this summer in three Archdiocesan locations for teens and their youth ministers.

Theology of the Body for Teens: Discovering God's Plan for Love and Life is based on Pope John Paul II's seminal work that he called the Theology of the Body. With it John Paul II sought to answer some of the most fundamental questions of human existence, including: "What does it mean to be made human?" and "How can I be truly happy?"

"We are very excited about the opportunity to partner with Generation Life and Ascension Press in conducting the Theology of the Body for Teens sessions during the summer months," says John Tague, Director of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's Office for Youth and Young Adults.

"Our teens are confronted with so many competing messages today regarding the human experience and sexuality. Theology of the Body for Teens takes the treasured teachings of Pope John Paul II and creatively conveys the teachings to help the young gain a proper understanding of themselves, their sexuality, others, and even God", Tague explained.


A Catholic Vision of Life and Love

Theology of the Body for Teens uses a comprehensive approach that includes stories, real-life examples, activities, prayers, and references to the culture that captures the hearts and minds of teens. This program takes two of the most controversial topics, God and sex, and integrates them through John Paul II's vision for love and life.

Theology of the Body for Teens is published by Ascension Press and has been granted the Imprimatur by Cardinal Justin Rigali. It is being presented in three Archdiocesan locations over the course of six weeks this summer beginning in early July. The early bird discounted cost registration date is June 15. Registration includes a student workbook and a parent's guide and is free for youth ministers who attend with a registered teen.

To register, for more information, or to sponsor a teen, visit www.OYYA.org or www.GenerationLife.org or email Christine Friedrich at 610-918-1177 or [email protected].

For more information about the Theology of the Body for Teens Program materials, visit www.TOBforTeens.com.


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Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia learned today of the lawsuit regarding allegations of sexual abuse against Reverend John M. McDevitt, O.S.F.S. from the time when he taught at Father Judge High School. Father McDevitt, now deceased, was assigned by his Order, the Oblates of Saint Frances de Sales, to teach at Northeast Catholic High School from 1971 to 1980 and at Father Judge High School from 1988 to 1993.

The Archdiocese was first contacted by the victim in March 2009 via e-mail. The Archdiocesan Victim Assistance Office spoke to the victim and offered him assistance. In addition, the Archdiocese immediately notified the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office and as well as Fr. McDevitt's Order.

Ms. Karen Becker, Director of the Office for Child and Youth Protection, said, "We understand how difficult it may be for individuals to reach out to the Church for help and we recognize the courage that takes. We hope that any individual from Fr. Judge High School or Northeast Catholic High School who has experienced abuse will contact us or call their local authorities for help."

If anyone needs assistance please contact the Victim Assistance Office for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia at 1-888-800-8780 or [email protected]

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, announces the Archdiocesan observance of the Year of the Priest. The year begins today, June 19, 2009, the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, and ends on June 19, 2010.

An announcement from Cardinal Rigali will be read at all 269 parishes in the Archdiocese on the weekend of June 20-21, 2009 and released via video on the Archdiocesan web site at www.archphila.org. Cardinal Rigali says, "With these words, holy priests for a holy people, I am pleased to announce the observance of the Year of the Priest in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, has called for this year of grace for the whole Church as a new opportunity for priests to grow in holiness and live more fully united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and for all the members of the Church to recall the essential role of priests among us and in society.

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the death of Saint John Vianney, known as the Curé (parish priest) of Ars, who was an example of great holiness and service to his people. There will be many opportunities during the year for participation by priests, deacons, men and women religious and the laity. (click here for schedule)

During the Year of the Priest in the Archdiocese:
- An Archdiocesan Prayer for Priests will be made widely available for use in parishes, schools, religious education programs and other institutions;
- A relic of Saint John Vianney will travel from parish to parish throughout the Archdiocese;
- On the Feast of the Holy Rosary - October 7 - the Rosary will be recited in every parish, school and religious education program for priests and priestly vocations and for Cardinal Rigali on the 6th Anniversary of his Installation as Archbishop of Philadelphia;
- A live dramatic presentation on the life of Saint John Vianney will take place at selected locations in the Archdiocese;
- A lecture series on the priesthood will be held at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary;
- A concert of Sacred Music will be held at the end of Lent;
- Convocation for all priests of the Archdiocese will be held in May 2010. Archbishop Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York is the keynote speaker.

In his announcement to the almost 1.5 million Catholics in the Archdiocese, Cardinal Rigali said, "Throughout this year, the priests and bishops of the Archdiocese, along with me, will reflect more deeply on the calling to which we have been called. We will make use of the example of Saint John Vianney and attempt to follow his example of prayer, penance, humility and apostolic zeal in the service of Jesus and you, our people. At the same time, we ask you to pray for us."

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Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

On Thursday evening, June 18, 2009, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia was notified by the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales that they had just learned of a lawsuit filed in the state of Delaware that contains an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor against Father Gerald Dunne, an Oblate of Saint Frances de Sales, who is in residence at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish in Philadelphia. The accuser in the case alleges that Fr. Dunne sexually abused him as a student at Salesianium High School in Delaware approximately thirty years ago. Father Dunne has denied the allegation against him.

Parishioners at Resurrection of Our Lord Parish were informed of the allegation this past weekend (June 20-21, 2009). Staff members from the Archdiocesan Victim Assistance Program were present. Director of the Office for Child and Youth Protection, Ms. Karen Becker, said, "We understand that it may be difficult for some parishioners to hear an announcement such as this. The counselors are present if anyone wishes to express a concern or ask for assistance."

Pending an investigation, the Oblates have placed Fr. Dunne on administrative leave and Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, has withdrawn Fr. Dunne's faculties to exercise priestly ministry in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Father Dunne has left the parish and will be living at an Oblate residence outside of the Archdiocese.

Father Dunne has also served in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia on the faculty of Northeast Catholic High School (1987-1994) and Father Judge High School (1994 to present).

In accord with Archdiocesan policy, Father Dunne had completed the screening procedures of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, including the appropriate police and child abuse background checks. He had received a positive recommendation and clearance from the Oblates and had completed their accredited screening process. The Archdiocese has never before received any allegation against him.

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia recognizes that this public notice may be painful to those who have been abused. If anyone needs assistance please contact the Victim Assistance Office for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia at 1-888-800-8780.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

The Cardinal Bevilacqua Community Center of Catholic Social Services and Visitation B.V.M. Parochial School announce a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for a new neighborhood Greenhouse Project. This project has been made possible through a generous grant of $10,000 from St. Christopher's Foundation for Children. The Ribbon-Cutting ceremony will begin at 1:30 p.m. on July 21st, 2009 at the Cardinal Bevilacqua Community Center at 2646 Kensington Avenue, with a rain date of July 22nd.

This greenhouse is an important community development effort of the Cardinal Bevilacqua Community Center, for it will be turning a crime ridden vacant lot in to a sustainable community space. The greenhouse will be a staple in the Center's expanding environmental and health education program, and will be used to create a hands-on science curriculum at Visitation Parochial School and at other schools in the surrounding area.

Estela Reyes-Bugg, Administrator of the Community Center, said, "In a time when "going green" is so popular, it's important to know that this is a project that will be longer lasting than any fad. The life skills learned in this greenhouse will be with our children for the rest of their lives. It is our hope that this greenhouse will help Mayor Nutter achieve his dream of making Philadelphia the greenest city in the United States."

"St. Christopher's Foundation for Children is very pleased to support the construction of the Community Center's new greenhouse," said Foundation Board President Paul DiLorenzo. "We recognize the important health lessons and life skills children and families will learn there, and we see this as an investment with great long-term impact. St. Christopher's Foundation for Children respects and admires the work of the Community Center and is proud to be considered a partner."

The Cardinal Bevilacqua Community Center seeks to provide social, cultural, educational, and enrichment services and programs in a context that respects the human dignity of the person and the values of the family. The Center serves community members without regard for religion, gender, race, creed or national origin.

St. Christopher's Foundation for Children's mission is to support the health and well-being of children in the community served by St. Christopher's Hospital for Children through programs in the areas of care, outreach, research, and education.

Visitation B.V.M. School is a beacon of hope to the families of our diverse community. Visitation provides the tools and inspiration to be people of faith, life-long learners, and responsible global citizens.

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Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

The Student Council of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Parish, Limerick, will sponsor a Christmas in July Dance to support the Children's Village in Kenya. Throughout this past year, missionaries who worked with the Children's Village, gave a presentation to the student body about their important work. The student body became intrigued by the opportunity to help other children. Throughout the year they held fundraisers to assist in the construction of dormitories in the village for girls. The dormitories are under construction and the student body did not want the summer to stand in their way of continuing to help other children around the world.

The dance will take place at Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Education Center, 256 Swamp Pk. Schwenksville, 19473, on Friday evening July 10th between 7:00-10:00 PM.

Contact
Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

Saints John Neumann and Maria Goretti Catholic High School was chosen, by Sports Illustrated's website www.SI.com, as the top high school athletic program in the state of Pennsylvania. Mr. John Murawski, President of Neumann-Goretti said, "We are very excited and thrilled with the news. This was made possible by the dedication and hardwork of our coaches, staff and, of course, our student athletes. I am most proud of the fact that along with being outstanding athletes, these students excel in the classroom as well. Neumann-Goretti could not be more happy with the recognition that was given to us by Sports Illustrated."

According to SI, the selection of top programs in each state was based upon tournament results for the 2008-09 school year, contacting athletic directors from top programs, examining success rates as well as weighing a school's production of star athletes and teams that excel.

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Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali will lead Solemn Evening Prayer as the Archdiocese of Philadelphia bids farewell to Bishop Joseph Cistone, who was named by Pope Benedict XVI to be Bishop of Saginaw.

All are welcome to attend the service at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. For those unable to attend, live streaming video will be available at www.archphila.org

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

The Deaf Apostolate of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is sponsoring Camp Overbrook, a two-week summer day camp for deaf and hard of hearing children, ages 6-14, who use American Sign Language. Approximately 42 children are expected to attend and 15 deaf teenagers will go through leadership training to work as assistant counselors.

Contact
Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will ordain Reverend Monsignor Timothy C. Senior as an Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia on Friday, July 31, 2009. Co-consecrators are Most Reverend Michael Bransfield, Bishop of Wheeling-Charleston, and Most Reverend Daniel Thomas, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Don Guanella School, along with five NBA referees, will host the 11th annual NBA Referee Clinic. Don Guanella School is a facility operated by Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in Springfield, Delaware County, for boys with a wide variety of disabilities ranging in age from five to 21. The National Basketball Association referees, who will work with the students of Don Guanella are Steve Javie, Mark Lindsay, Mark Wunderlick, Ed Malloy and Joe Crawford. The referees' families will also be on hand to give out NBA items such as hats, jackets, t-shirts and basketballs to the young men.

Contact
Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Office for Youth and Young Adults will host the ninth annual Theology on Tap Series for young adults in their 20's and 30's beginning Thursday, August 6 and continuing for four consecutive weeks.

Contact
Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

A missionary image of Our Lady of Guadalupe will be presented in several parishes through August 23, 2009, when its visit to the Philadelphia area will conclude at Masses at St. Mary Magdalen Church, Media. The image of the Blessed Virgin Mary arrived in the Philadelphia area on July 23, 2009.
The image is one of four exact replicas of a picture of Mary said to have appeared on the tilma, or cloak, of Blessed Juan Diego, a Mexican peasant, in the 16th century. The image arrived at Malvern Retreat House on July 23, 2009.

MISSIONARY IMAGE OF OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE VISITATION SCHEDULE>
(Remaining Schedule Revised with Additions on August 11)

August 11: St. Philomena Church, 41 E. Baltimore Avenue, Lansdowne, 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. Mass, Veneration and Rosary in the chapel.

August 12: St. Francis Country House, Darby.

August 13-14: St Francis of Assisi Church, 136 Saxer Avenue and Rolling Road, Springfield; 6:30 a.m. and 8 a.m. Masses.

August 15: St. John the Evangelist, 21 South 13th Street, Philadelphia; 7 a.m.; Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Buckingham, 5:30 p.m. Vigil Mass.

August 16: Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Buckingham. All Masses.

August 18: St. Cyril of Jerusalem Church, Jamison; 9 a.m. Mass, adoration until 3:30 p.m.

August 19: Our Mother of Good Counsel, Bryn Mawr; 6:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. Masses, followed by vigil at Bryn Mawr Hospital.

August 21: St. Rita of Cascia Shrine, Broad and Ellsworth Streets, Philadelphia; Veneration, adoration and rosary.

August 21: St. John Chrysostom Church, 615 S. Providence Rd, Wallingford. Pro-Life Day in Delaware County; 7:30 p.m. Mass. Candlelight prayer vigil to follow at Crozer Chester Hospital.

August 22: St. Mary Magdalen Church, 2400 N Providence Rd., Media; 7 p.m. Mass followed by Eucharistic procession, veneration & Our Lady of Guadalupe Story in Song by Marty Rotella.

August 23: St. Mary Magdalen Church, Media; 7:30 a.m., 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 A.M. Masses.

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director for Communications
215-587-3747

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia's Nutritional Development Services will sponsor a Peace Day Celebration at St. Martin de Porres School Beacon Program. The Peace Day Celebration has become an annual summer event for many of the more than 500 sites that offer the Summer Meal Program in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties.

Contact
Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

Pennsylvania Attorney General Tom Corbett announced today that agents from the Attorney General's Child Predator Unit arrested H. Michael Villarose II, a former coach at Kennedy-Kenrick Catholic High School, on August 13 for unlawful contact with a minor and criminal use of a computer.

The arrest was not made as a result of any activity related to his position as coach at Kennedy-Kenrick. The Archdiocese became aware of the arrest on August 17 after Villarose resigned his position.

Villarose was the coach of the Kennedy-Kenrick girls' varsity volleyball team for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 school years. He had completed and passed the required criminal background checks and child abuse clearances as required by the Archdiocese. He also attended the mandated Archdiocesan Safe Environment training.

Ms. Mary E. Rochford, Superintendent of Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, said, "We are surprised and distressed to learn of these charges. While we have no report of criminal activity committed by Mr. Villarose in his position as a coach, the administration of Kennedy-Kenrick High School will be informing our school families immediately and offering contact information for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office of Child and Youth Protection if anyone needs to talk about this situation.

Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of the children entrusted to our care. We work every day to provide the most complete spiritual, educational, nurturing and safe environment for the young people who attend our schools."

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director
215-587-3747

Pope Benedict XVI has accepted the resignation of Bishop Joseph F. Martino from the pastoral governance of the Diocese of Scranton, Pennsylvania, for health reasons. The decision was announced August 31, by Archbishop Pietro Sambi, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States.
The pope has also accepted the resignation of Bishop John M. Dougherty, until now Auxiliary Bishop of Scranton, who has served past the mandatory retirement age for bishops. Cardinal Justin F. Rigali of Philadelphia, the Metropolitan Archbishop, has been appointed Apostolic Administrator for the Diocese of Scranton.
Joseph F. Martino was born in Philadelphia, May 1, 1946. He studied at the North American College in Rome and earned a sacred theology licentiate (S.T.L.) degree at the Gregorian University there. He was ordained a priest for the Philadelphia archdiocese on December 18, 1970 and was named Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia on January 24, 1996. He was appointed bishop of Scranton on July 25, 2003.


Cardinal Rigali addressed the media in Scranton this morning:

Good morning and thank you for the opportunity to speak with you on this occasion.

With the resignation of Bishop Martino as Bishop of Scranton, I have been appointed by Pope Benedict XVI as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese. This appointment is by its nature temporary.

As the Apostolic Administrator I would like to open my remarks by offering Bishop Martino the expression of deep gratitude for all his pastoral service to the People of God in the Diocese of Scranton. The life of a bishop finds him intimately bound to the People of God who make up the Diocese that he is called to serve. Bishop Martino's resignation comes after much prayer and reflection. His decision also carries with it a deep concern for the well-being of this local Church, with its clergy, religious and laity. How will they best be served in their journey of faith? I am certain that such thoughts emerged in the Bishop's heart as he struggled with his own health issues and the needs of his people.

Bishop Martino has served the Diocese of Scranton for the past six years. He has faced many challenges during this time. Yet, undoubtedly, his greatest legacy to the Diocese of Scranton is and will be his invitation to the faithful to enter into a deeper relationship with God through prayer, and in particular through a renewed devotion to the presence of our Lord in the Holy Eucharist. This remains a blessing for all.

Bishop Martino, thank you. May God bless you for your efforts and keep you in his care.

I would also like to express gratitude to Bishop Dougherty, Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Scranton for the past fourteen years and a priest of the Diocese for over 52 years. His contributions to the administrative work of this diocese are innumerable and span many decades. His ministry as a pastor and as a bishop has touched the lives of countless numbers of people throughout the Diocese of Scranton and beyond.

Bishop Dougherty, thank you. May God bless you in the years ahead.

I wish likewise to acknowledge the presence of Bishop Timlin, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Scranton. He too has served the Diocese well both during his time as Bishop and in the years that have followed. Thank you, Bishop Timlin.

On my part I am grateful to the Holy See for this temporary assignment as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Scranton. It is an honor for me to serve during this time of transition as we await the appointment of a new Bishop. As Apostolic Administrator I am blessed now to have a special spiritual relationship with this local Church.

Understandably, given my responsibilities in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and elsewhere, it will be difficult for me to be personally present to you as much as I would like to be. For this reason I have asked Monsignor Joseph Bambera to serve during this time of transition as my Delegate with all the faculties of a Vicar General. Many of you know Monsignor Bambera. He is currently pastor of St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Mary of Czestochowa Parishes in Archbald. He brings a wealth of experience to this task, both administratively and pastorally. He will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Diocese and be my link to the Diocese in my absence. He will be collaborating very closely with me as the Church of Scranton moves forward.

I am grateful to Monsignor Vincent Grimalia and Father Joseph Kopacz who have served as Bishop Martino's Vicars General. I am also grateful to the many priests who served as Bishop Martino's Episcopal Vicars.

To assist in the work of the Diocese during my time with you, I am announcing the following appointments in addition to my appointment of Monsignor Bambera as my Delegate, as already mentioned.

" Monsignor Vincent Grimalia is appointed to serve as full-time director of the Called to Mission and Holiness program. It is my understanding that the people of the Diocese of Scranton have invested a great deal of time and effort into this process of parish restructuring and renewal. While I am aware of the fact that the process at times has been difficult, I also know that your efforts will help to maintain a vibrant Catholic presence in the eleven counties of the Diocese of Scranton for years to come. I am asking Monsignor Grimalia now to devote even more of his time to help with the many details of the implementation process, which he has done so well, and future pastoral planning. In addition I am asking him to continue to serve as Director of Continuing Education for Priests pro tem.

" Father Richard Loch is appointed as Episcopal Vicar for Priests pro tem.

" Father Philip Altavilla is appointed as Episcopal Vicar for the Northern Region of the Diocese pro tem.

" Father Mark Balczeniuk is appointed as Episcopal Vicar for the Eastern Region of the Diocese pro tem.

" Father John Polednak is appointed as Episcopal Vicar for the Southern Region of the Diocese pro tem.

" Monsignor Neil Van Loon is appointed as Episcopal Vicar for the Western Region of the Diocese pro tem.

" Monsignor Joseph Kelly is appointed as Episcopal Vicar for Hispanic Ministry pro tem.

" Father Anthony Generose, while remaining Judicial Vicar, is appointed Vicar for Consecrated Life pro tem.


My friends, as you know so well, the Diocese of Scranton is richly blessed. It is blessed first of all with a people of vibrant faith: our clergy, religious and laity. In that faith and openness to Christ we find our hope.

The Diocese of Scranton is blessed with good and faithful priests who do the work of the Church, even as they face various difficulties and challenges, including changing parish structures.

The Diocese is blessed with parishes in which the faith of the People of God has been celebrated and lived for many years; communities that serve the needs of so many, that offer healing and compassion, and that seek to build up the Kingdom of God in our midst.

The Diocese is blessed with the presence of four respected Catholic Universities as well as with wonderful Catholic schools and religious education programs in which our faith is taught and nurtured.

And the Diocese of Scranton is blessed indeed by the tapestry of people who make up the Church of these eleven counties. We are blessed by the presence of old and new immigrants in our parishes and neighborhoods who invite us to celebrate with them their heritage, their lives and their faith.

Change and transition are always challenging to embrace. Yet, we know that life goes on. In the Church, life always goes on with joyful anticipation of the future because the Risen Christ journeys with us. And life will go on here in the Diocese of Scranton with apostolic succession and the continuity of Catholic faith.

May we use this time of transition as a period of prayer and expectation. I invite you to work together in pursuing charity in truth. As a Diocese we look to Mary, the Mother of God, for consolation and help.

Finally, I would say that so much of the meaning of Christianity is captured in the words of Saint Paul: "Bear one another's burdens and so you will fulfill the law of Christ" (Gal 6:2).

Thank you and God bless you.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

PHILADELPHIA (September 8, 2009) - More than 80,000 students who attend 177 parish and regional elementary schools, 20 high schools and four schools of special education within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will head back to their classrooms on Wednesday, September 9, 2009. Since its founding, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia has educated more than 15 million students, providing academic and faith formation rooted in Gospel Values.

Numerous back-to-school special events are planned throughout the Archdiocese to usher in the back-to-school season. On Wednesday, September 9, 2009 at 7:15 a.m. Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, and The Honorable Michael A. Nutter, Mayor of the City of Philadelphia, will officially kick-off the start of the Archdiocesan school year at Our Mother of Sorrows Parish School, 1008 N. 48th Street, Philadelphia. This year, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will mark the 2009 back-to-school season as one of gratitude toward parents and guardians, who make significant personal sacrifices to invest in Catholic education for their children. Bishop McFadden and Mayor Nutter will welcome the elementary students at Our Mother of Sorrows Parish School and also thank their parents for their continued support of Catholic education.

"The current economic climate has had an impact on thousands of families across the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, yet, our students' parents continue to make great sacrifices to provide their child with a Catholic education," said Mary E. Rochford, Superintendent of Schools. "For this, we would like to show our parents our gratitude. And this back-to-school season, we will focus on taking the time to honor and thank the parents and guardians of our students for their selfless investment in Catholic education."

Across the Archdiocese, parents will receive letters of gratitude from Bishop McFadden to thank and bless them for continued commitment to and support of Catholic education.

ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA BACK-TO-SCHOOL EVENTS

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

St. Stanislaus Parish School, 493 E. Main Street, Lansdale, Montgomery County welcomes Most Reverend Timothy C. Senior, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, for the school's opening prayer service on Wednesday, September 9, 2009 at 9:15 a.m. In observance of the Year of the Priest, the school will give each student a photo and name of an Archdiocesan priest whom the class will pray for during the school year.


St. Kevin Parish School, 200 W. Sproul Road, Springfield, Montgomery County will celebrate their students' parents this back to school season with a welcome reception at 8 a.m. Following the reception students will create cards to thank their parents for providing them with a Catholic education.

Archbishop Ryan Academy for the Deaf and Saint Lucy Day School for Children with Visual Impairments, 4251 L Street, Philadelphia will celebrate the joining of the two school communities at an assembly on Wednesday, September 9, 2009 at 11 a.m. The assembly will focus on the exciting process of bringing the school communities together and learning to communicate with each other using the Braille code to sign into each other's hands.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Saint Hilary of Poitiers Parish School, Rydal, Montgomery County will celebrate this back-to-school season with an event at Rita's Italian Ice, 136 Huntington Pike, Rockledge, Montgomery County. On Thursday, September 10, 2009 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Reverend Kevin P. Murray, Pastor, St. Hilary of Poitiers, will join Principal Eileen Hagan and St. Hilary faculty to serve Italian ice at this Rita's location to raise money for their 2009-10 school year.

Friday, September 11, 2009

Mary E. Rochford, Superintendent of Schools, will celebrate a significant enrollment boost at DePaul Catholic School, 44 West Logan Street, Philadelphia on Friday, September 11 at 10 a.m. by welcoming the new students who have helped to double the school's enrollment since 2003.

St. Richard Parish School, 1826 Pollock Street, Philadelphia, will hold an outdoor prayer service on Friday, September 11 at 8:00 a.m. in honor of Patriot Day and the memory of the nearly 3,000 people who died in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. All students, their parents and parishioners are invited to attend.

Monday, September 14, 2009

Students at Holy Trinity Parish School, Stockham and Osborne Avenues, Morrisville, Bucks County will meet their new Principal, Mrs. Elaine McDowell, through a series of special events held on Monday, September 14, 2009. The day will begin with a kick-off Mass with Communion Meditation given by Mrs. McDowell. Students and parents are then invited to tour the school with prizes given out along the way. The day will culminate with students participating in the Traveling Zoo assembly program.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will bless the new LabLearner science lab at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, September 15, 2009 at Ss. Simon and Jude Parish School, 6 Cavanaugh Court, West Chester, Chester County. The LabLearner lab is outfitted with modern scientific equipment and interactive lesson plans that encourage group work and creative thinking. Ss. Simon and Jude is one of 26 in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia furnished this summer with a state-of-the art science lab.

St. Hubert High School, 7320 Torresdale Avenue, Philadelphia, will welcome Ms. Regina Craig as their new Principal. Ms. Craig will introduce herself to St. Hubert students on Tuesday, September 15, 2009 at 8:30 a.m. in an opening address.



Friday, September 18, 2009

Annunciation B.V.M. Parish School, 421 Brookline Blvd., Havertown, Delaware County will welcome back students and their families at a Back-To-School Block Party on Friday, September 18, 2009 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The block party will feature a moon bounce, face painting, pretzels, water ice and games for students, their parents and the school community to celebrate the new school year.

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Assumption B.V.M. Parish School, 290 State Road, West Grove, Chester County will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a Fall Festival on September 19, 2009 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. The festival will feature music, food, games and prizes to commemorate the school's 50 years of providing Catholic education.

Saturday, September 26, 2009

St. Luke the Evangelist Parish School, 2336 Fairhill Avenue, Glenside, Montgomery County will honor local police, firefighters and emergency medical services staff at a Blue Mass on Saturday, September 26, 2009 at 4:30 p.m. The school community will meet the local first responders at the Weldon Fire Station on Easton Road, and process in uniform to St. Luke's for Mass at 5 p.m.

Friday, October 2, 2009

Lansdale Catholic High School, 700 Lansdale Avenue, Lansdale, Montgomery County, will welcome alumnus, Most Reverend Timothy C. Senior, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, to serve as the main celebrant of the school's annual Founder's Day Mass and 60th Anniversary Celebration on Friday, October 2, 2009 at 9 a.m.

ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA BACK-TO-SCHOOL NEWS

St. Andrew Parish School, 535 Mason Avenue, Drexel Hill, Delaware County will open with a renovated state-of-the-art computer lab and new art room. The computer lab will include new computers, training tables and seating to enhance the learning environment. The lab will be dedicated on Wednesday, November 4, 2009.

St. Albert the Great Parish School, 214 Welsh Road, Huntingdon Valley, Montgomery County , will introduce its new LabLearner lab program and new science lab. The LabLearner lab is outfitted with modern scientific equipment and interactive lesson plans that encourage group work and creative thinking. The school is one of 26 in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia furnished this summer with a state-of-the art science lab.

St. Andrew Parish School, 51 Wrights Road, Newtown, Bucks County will unveil their brand new television studio. Funded through the school's successful fundraising program, the Great Crusader Quest, the studio will feature a green screen, five monitors, professional cameras and a mixing board.

St. Francis de Sales Parish School, 39 New Street, Aston, Delaware County will begin the school year with 16 new netbooks and desktop computers through a grant by the Connelly Foundation. The netbooks will provide students with Microsoft Office applications and access to the Internet in the classroom, helping to integrate technology into all subject areas.

Blessed Virgin Mary Parish School, 51 MacDade Blvd., Darby, Delaware County will offer a new extracurricular activity to students this year - the Business Club. The Business Club, taught by local entrepreneur and parishioner, Mr. Harold Finigan. The club will help students learn personal budgeting, basic banking, balancing a checkbook and avoiding debt.

Ss. John Neumann and Maria Goretti High School, 1736 South 10th Street, Philadelphia, will welcome Mr. John Murawski as the school's President. Mr. Murawski will address the students to welcome them back on September 10, 2009 at 7:30 a.m.

ABOUT THE SCHOOLS OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA
In the 2008-2009 academic year, Archdiocesan elementary students scored between 22 and 26 points higher than the national mean on the basic skills portions of Terra Nova testing. The Archdiocese's Powerful Learning Program, implemented across all 20 Archdiocesan high schools over the 2008-09 school year, used Virtual Learning Communities (VLCs) for a professional development initiative where teachers shared resources for implementing emerging social web technologies in their classrooms. For the 2009-10 school year, technology continues to be a top priority in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, as several schools begin to launch netbook initiatives, including St. Francis de Sales where netbooks will be available to students in 5th to 8th grade.

In June 2009, 4,716 young men and women graduated from the 20 high schools of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. The Class of 2009 was offered over $243 million in scholarships, surpassing all previous records for the Archdiocese, and more than 95% of the Class of 2009 will pursue a post-secondary education.

"This year our schools will observe the Year of the Priest to reflect on essential role priest fulfill in our schools, parishes and society," said Rochford. "Throughout the year, our schools will celebrate priests and their dedication to their sacred calling."

For more information about the 177 parish and regional elementary schools, 20 high schools and four schools of special education in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, please visit www.catholicschools-phl.org.


# # #

Contact
Meredith WIlson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

On Wednesday, September 9 at 7:15 a.m., Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, and The Honorable Michael A. Nutter, Mayor of the City of Philadelphia, will officially kick-off the start of the Archdiocesan school year at Our Mother of Sorrows Parish School in Philadelphia. This year, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will mark the 2009 back-to-school season as one of gratitude toward parents and guardians, who make significant personal sacrifices to invest in Catholic education for their children. Bishop McFadden, Mayor Nutter and Father Stephen D. Thorne, Director of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office for Black Catholics will greet the elementary students at Our Mother of Sorrows and also thank their parents for their continued support of Catholic education. Principals and teachers at the 177 parish elementary schools, five schools of special education and twenty high schools across the Archdiocese will greet parents with similar expressions of gratitude.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving for Religious Jubilarians on:

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Philadelphia, Pa., September 11, 2009-Today, the Germantown and Catholic school communities will celebrate the beginning of the 2009-2010 school year with the DePaul Catholic School Renaming Ceremony and Opening Day Celebration. Formally known as St. Martin de Porres Interparochial School, DePaul Catholic School is the only Archdiocese of Philadelphia school serving the expansive inner city neighborhood of Germantown. DePaul Catholic School is welcoming 100 new students from the former Our Lady of Hope and St. Benedict Parish Schools. The renamed elementary school will now serve a total of 350 students and has enlarged the Catholic school community for Germantown and surrounding neighborhoods.

The DePaul Catholic School Renaming Ceremony and Opening Day Celebration will serve to unite the school community and celebrate the DePaul Catholic School's expanded and improved academic programs. The ceremony will feature remarks from Mary E. Rochford, Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, students, school principal and Germantown church pastors.

"Our new name honors the humble beginning of our school and allows us to truly celebrate the great school that we have become under the guiding legacy of Saint Vincent de Paul," explained Sister Cheryl Ann Hillig, DePaul Catholic School Principal. "And while our name is new, our mission continues-- to provide local children with an excellent education that develops them academically, socially and spiritually."

According to Mary E. Rochford, Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the school's name has changed, but DePaul Catholic School will uphold the same spiritual and rigorous academic environment.

"The former St. Martin de Porres Interparochial School has provided a strong and effective spiritual and academic program for their students," she said. "The students in this school are challenged to reach their personal best in all educational areas. I know that this same spirit will continue with the addition of many new students and the new school name."

DePaul Catholic School is a BLOCS-supported elementary school. BLOCS (Business Leadership Organized for Catholic Schools) is an independent charitable organization that provides scholarships to children in the Philadelphia region that wish to receive a quality education from a Catholic school.
"Children who have access to Catholic schools have an opportunity to receive an education that develops confidence to succeed in school, on the job and in life," said Mike O'Neill, chairman of BLOCS. "The DePaul Catholic School has continued to make that opportunity possible for the children of Germantown and for the former students of Our Lady of Hope and St. Benedict Parish Schools."

The DePaul Catholic School name change reflects the success of the groundbreaking St. Vincent de Paul-inspired Service-Learning program and to mark the implementation of a new academic program. The Service-Learning program gives every student the opportunity to learn and grow through the intrinsically educational experience of serving those in need. The new academic program at the school is highlighted by an educational after-school program for every student, two small classes for no more than 25 students for each grade, two full-time reading specialists and a full-time math specialist, full-time teacher's assistants in Kindergarten and 1st grade, full-time Spanish, Technology, Music and Art teachers, a full-time guidance counselor and a full-time campus minister to coordinate the innovative Service-Learning program.

The DePaul Catholic School's enrollment numbers have surged in recent years, indicating a desire among Philadelphia parents to enroll their children in a school where both their academic and spiritual needs are met. Enrollment at the school has increased almost 50% from the previous school year and almost 95% from 2001.

The DePaul Catholic School Renaming Ceremony and Opening Day Celebration will be a highly visual, outdoor event with 350 elementary school students. Photograph and interview opportunities will be available. Parking is available for members of the media in the parking lot adjacent to the school.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

PHILADELPHIA, PA (September 17, 2009) - The Archdiocese of Philadelphia is proud to announce that one of its elementary schools has been named a 2009 National Blue Ribbon School. Epiphany of Our Lord Parish School in Plymouth Meeting, Pa. was one of only three private schools in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and one of 50 private schools across the United States to receive the nation's 2009 National Blue Ribbon School award. This year 314 national Blue Ribbons were awarded

Bestowed by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, the National Blue Ribbon School award honors public and private elementary, middle and high schools that are either academically superior, or have made dramatic gains in student achievement, helping to close gaps in achievement among minority and disadvantaged students. Each year since 1982, the U.S. Department of Education has sought out schools where students attain and maintain high academic goals.

Schools are selected for this national recognition based upon their ability to meet one of the following two criteria: 1) schools whose students, regardless of background, achieve in the top 10 percent of their state on state tests or are in the top 10 percent of the nation on nationally-recognized tests; and 2) schools with at least 40 percent of their students from disadvantaged backgrounds demonstrating dramatic improvement of performance to high levels on state tests or nationally-recognized tests.

Epiphany of Our Lord Parish School will be honored in Washington, DC, on November 2-3, 2009. The principal, Ms. Miriam Havey, and a teacher from Epiphany of Our Lord will attend the ceremony, where each school will receive a plaque and a flag signifying their 2009 National Blue Ribbon School status.

For more information about the 2009 National Blue Ribbon School Program please visit: http://www.ed.gov/programs/nclbbrs/2009/index.html

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

On Monday, September 21, St. Agnes-Sacred Heart School students will celebrate the International Day of Peace by "planting" pinwheels for peace and holding a Prayer Service for Peace at both the primary and middle school campuses. Each student created a pinwheel, which on one side features his or her written thoughts about war and peace, tolerance and living in harmony with others. On the other side of the pinwheel, students were asked to illustrate peace through a drawing or painting. These pinwheels of all shapes and sizes will be "planted" into the ground around the schools, as a visual representation of the students' prayers for peace.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

On Friday, September 11, the championship softball team of the St. Hubert Catholic High School for Girls will have the opportunity to have their picture taken with the Philadelphia Phillies World Series Trophy. After winning the Catholic League title and District 12 championship, St. Hubert's softball team entered the 16-team state tournament for the first time since joining the PIAA. Although the team lost to Waynesboro in the quarterfinals, it was an incredible year of hard work, determination and accolades. To celebrate, the softball players will pose for photos with the World Series Trophy and their own two championship trophies at Citizen's Bank Park.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

St. Luke the Evangelist Parish in Glenside, Montgomery County will hold a Blue Mass in honor of local police officers, firefighters and EMS workers. Monsignor J. Michael Flood, Pastor of St. Luke Evangelist Parish, will be the celebrant and homilist.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Christ the King Parish in Northeast Philadelphia will hold a Mass of Appreciation in honor of local police officers and firefighters. The Mass of Appreciation coincides with the one-year anniversary of the death of Philadelphia Police Sgt. Patrick McDonald, who was killed in the line of duty on September 23, 2008. McDonald was a graduate of Christ the King School and Archbishop Ryan High School.

Reverend James A. Callahan, Pastor of Christ the King Parish, will be the celebrant and homilist. Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will preside and offer remarks. Reverend Joseph Shenosky, School Minister of Archbishop Ryan High School, will concelebrate.

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director for Communications
215-587-3747

Don Guanella School, along with the Delaware County Chapter of the Special Olympics, will host a "Comedy Spectacular." The show will benefit the Delaware County Special Olympics programs, which many of Don Gunella's young men participate in throughout the year.

Contact
Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

This past Thursday, September 24, 2009, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia was served with a lawsuit filed in Delaware that alleges sexual abuse of a minor more than thirty years ago by Monsignor Michael Flood, Pastor of Saint Luke the Evangelist Parish in Glenside, Montgomery County. The lawsuit does not name the plaintiff. It describes him as a student at St. John Neumann High School in Philadelphia when Father Flood taught at the school in the late 1970's. The Archdiocese has never before received an allegation of any kind regarding Monsignor Flood. He denies the allegation.

Parishioners were made aware of this at Masses this past weekend, September 26-27, 2009. Monsignor Flood made the announcement to his parishioners about the lawsuit, asking parishioners to join him in praying for the individual who made this allegation. Monsignor Arthur Rodgers, Vicar for Montgomery County, representing Cardinal Rigali, also spoke to the parishioners.

Due to the upsetting nature of this announcement, staff members from the Archdiocesan Victim Assistance Program were present. The Director of the Office for Child and Youth Protection, Ms. Karen Becker, said, "We were there if anyone needed any assistance or felt the need to talk."

Ordinarily, when the Archdiocese receives an historical allegation against a member of the clergy, it is reported to the public authorities and an investigation is initiated by the Archdiocese in accord with the Bishops' Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. In this case, a report was made to the public authorities but an Archdiocesan investigation is impossible at this time for several reasons. First, because the person who has made the allegation is not identified; and second, because this matter is a civil suit and is presently before the court in the State of Delaware. The Archdiocese is reaching out to offer assistance services to the individual.

In view of these circumstances, Monsignor Flood will continue in his position as pastor while the civil suit proceeds. He is already voluntarily refraining from unsupervised ministry to young people. Because this matter will go through the courts in Delaware, the Archdiocese does not know how long the process will take.

Monsignor Flood, age 71, was ordained in 1968. In addition to serving as pastor of St. Luke the Evangelist Parish, he has also served at the following parishes and schools: St. Patrick, Malvern; St. Rose of Lima, North Wales; Saint Michael, Chester; St. Madeline, Ridley Park; St. Malachy, Philadelphia; Incarnation of Our Lord, Philadelphia; St. Edmond, Philadelphia; St. Thomas Aquinas, Philadelphia; St. Madeleine Sophie, Philadelphia; Cardinal O'Hara High School; St. John Neumann High School and St. Maria Goretti High School.

Editor's Note: The Victim Assistance Office for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia can be reached at
1-888-800-8780 or [email protected]

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

On Tuesday, September 29, 2009, Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, along with Wayne Spilove, Chairman of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission; Councilman Jack Kelly, City of Philadelphia City Council; and Dr. Richard McCarron, Secretary for Catholic Education, will preside over the dedication of an historical marker honoring the founder of Roman Catholic High School, Thomas E. Cahill. The marker will be unveiled by Roman's oldest alumnus, Stan Nanczuk, Class of 1935, and the school's youngest student, Michael Thorne, Class of 2013, in front of an audience of Roman Catholic students, faculty and administration,

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

On Sunday, October 25, 2009, the Office for Youth and Young Adults (OYYA) and the Malvern Retreat House will cosponsor Adoremus Te II, an Archdiocesan Celebration of National World Youth Day Sunday. This event, designed especially for high school students will be held at the Malvern Retreat House in Malvern, PA from 1:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Approximately 400 high school students are expected to attend this event which will include Mass celebrated by Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, the Sacrament of Penance, Eucharistic Adoration presided over by Reverend David Engo, OFM, Cap., a keynote presentation and concert by the Kelly Pease Band, and praise and worship music by Face-to-Face Ministry.

The schedule for the event is as follows:
1:00 PM Registration Opens
Visit the Expo Tables and enjoy Volleyball and Frisbee on the lawn
Face - to - Face Ministry begins Praise and Worship Music at 1:30 PM

2:00 PM Welcome - On the Main Lawn
Rev. David Engo, OFM, Cap.

2:15 PM Concert by The Kelly Pease Band - On the Main Lawn
Confession Available

3:00 PM Break & Snack
Confession Available
Visit the Expo Tables

3:20 PM Keynote Presentation by Kelly Pease- On the Main Lawn
Confession Available

4:30 PM Mass - In Upper McShain
Celebrated by the Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden

6:00 PM Dinner - Cafeteria
Provided and included in registration fee
6:45 PM Eucharistic Adoration - By candle light in the Grotto

7:45 PM Benediction

8:00 PM Depart

Complete registration materials can be obtained from the OYYA website, www.oyya.org, or by contacting OYYA at 215-965-4636. To view the day's schedule of events please visit www.oyya.org/page5.html. Registration cost prior to October 15, 2009 is $15 per person. Groups receive one free registration for every 10 paid registrations. OYYA is also coordinating limited regional bus transportation to and from the event for $10 per person roundtrip.

For more information, please contact Abbie Langsdorf at 215-965-4625 or Andrea Montillo at 215-965-4639

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

On Thursday, October 1, 2009 at 8:30 a.m. Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will be the celebrant and homilist for Little Flower Catholic High School for Girls' Feast of St. Therese Mass, which honors St. Therese de Lisieux, for whom Little Flower is named. This year's feast day celebration is particularly special because it also marks the 70th anniversary of Little Flower. Mass will begin with students processing into the auditorium holding the flag of each graduating class, a total of 71 flags.

Following Mass, Bishop McFadden will greet students and each will receive a rose, a commemorative book clip and a copy of a letter sent to Little Flower in 1939 from Mother Agnes, St. Therese's sister.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will be the main celebrant and homilist of the Hispanic Heritage Mass. The annual Mass is expected to draw approximately 1,000 faithful from around the area. Many participants will dress in traditional ethnic clothing from their country of origin or heritage as a way to celebrate the unity and diversity of the Hispanic Community.

Contact
Bonnie Olinger
Communications Assistant
215-587-3747

PHILADELPHIA, PA, October 8, 2009 ---- The Archdiocese of Philadelphia today announced that Cardinal Dougherty High School and Northeast Catholic High School for Boys will close at the conclusion of the 2009-2010 school year (June 2010). The Office of Catholic Education, in consultation with the Board of Education of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, prepared a recommendation, based on a comprehensive study, to close the two schools. That recommendation was recently accepted by Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia. Earlier today, the Office of Catholic Education informed faculty and staff, as well as families of students at the two schools, about the closures.

"I understand the deep emotions that may be felt by the communities of both Cardinal Dougherty and Northeast Catholic upon hearing this news," said Cardinal Rigali. "This difficult decision was made after much prayer, study and reflection, so that our schools remain strong in their Catholic identity, continue to offer a superior academic program, and remain affordable and accessible to all families. I will keep all of those affected by these closures in my prayers. May they find comfort in their faith during this time of transition."

According to Dr. Richard McCarron, Secretary for Catholic Education, this painful but necessary decision was shaped by conclusions made in a comprehensive examination of current and projected enrollments, future ability to provide a quality academic program, regional demographic trends, building capacity and the finances of the individual Archdiocesan high schools. "The challenges we are experiencing here in Philadelphia are mirrored by dioceses all over the country," explained Dr. McCarron. "We are faced with rising costs to maintain the overhead of large, older schools that simply are not operating close to their capacities." Dr. McCarron emphasized that this solution will enable the Archdiocese to continue to provide a superior spiritual and academic education to students. Dr. McCarron warned that, without action, declining enrollment would accelerate tuition increases and compromise the overall quality of Philadelphia's Catholic education system.

"With the hope of enrolling the current Cardinal Dougherty and Northeast Catholic students in the remaining nearby Archdiocesan high schools, we can not only retain, but improve, the quality of the educational experience for all of our students. A healthy enrollment opens the doors to stronger faith formation programs, more competitive academics, improved extra-curricular activities, and an enhanced social environment for all of our students," said Auxiliary Bishop Joseph McFadden.

Cardinal Dougherty High School, 6301 North 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19120
The recommendation to close Cardinal Dougherty High School was related to a steady decline in the school's enrollment. Over the last ten years, Cardinal Dougherty's enrollment has declined by more than 43 percent and is projected to decline by an additional 34 percent over the next three years. Cardinal Dougherty's physical plant is the third largest of all the Archdiocesan high schools, and would have an inordinate capacity even for the projected enrollment in the entire region. Enrollment is currently at 642 students and the school's capacity is currently rated for more than 2,000 students. The school had a peak enrollment of 5,944 students in 1965.

Cardinal Dougherty students will be welcomed by several nearby Archdiocesan high schools which are accessible by public transportation.

Northeast Catholic High School for Boys, 1842 Torresdale Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19124
Since the year 1999-2000, Northeast Catholic has also experienced a steady decline in enrollment, dropping 29 percent in the last ten years, it is projected to drop by an additional 24 percent over the next three years. Enrollment is currently at 551 students and the school has a capacity of 1,700 students. The peak enrollment for Northeast Catholic was 4,410 students in 1953. Despite every effort by the school and its alumni to increase enrollment, broaden fundraising and market the school, enrollment continues to plummet each year.

Northeast Catholic students will be welcomed at several nearby Archdiocesan schools which are accessible by public transportation.

"It is with a heavy heart that I accepted the recommendation to close Cardinal Dougherty and Northeast Catholic high schools. I believe that these changes are essential for us to provide the best academic and spiritual program for all students and to ensure the long-term Mission of providing Catholic education in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. I recognize the feelings of loss," said Cardinal Rigali. "I express my deep appreciation to our school families who sacrifice to send their young people to our Catholic schools.

I am also deeply grateful to the faculty, staff, administration, and men and women religious, who have served the Cardinal Dougherty and Northeast Catholic school communities, for their dedication to the young people in their care for these many years."

The archdiocesan education announcement, parent letters and updates from the Office of Catholic Education can be viewed by visiting www.catholicschools-phl.org/.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

CELEBRANT: HIS EMINENCE CARDINAL JUSTIN RIGALI

DAY DATE TIME LOCATION
Tuesday 10/20/2009 6:00 PM Immaculate Conception, Jenkintown
Thursday 10/22/2009 4:00 PM Saint Anselm, Philadelphia
Saturday 10/24/2009 11:00 PM Annunciation B.V.M., Havertown

Thursday 11/05/2009 4:00 PM Saint George, Philadelphia
Saturday 11/07/2009 10:00 AM Saint David, Willow Grove

CELEBRANT: MOST REVEREND ROBERT P. MAGINNIS

DAY DATE TIME LOCATION

Wednesday 10/28/2009 4:00 PM Holy Innocents, Philadelphia
Saturday 10/31/2009 10:30 AM & 2:00 PM Sacred Heart, Oxford

Sunday 11/01/2009 10:00 AM Saint Patrick, Philadelphia
Tuesday 11/03/2009 4:00 PM Saint Dominic, Philadelphia
Thursday 11/05/2009 4:00 PM Saint Aloysius, Pottstown
Saturday 11/07/2009 10:00 AM Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Morton
Tuesday 11/10/2009 4:00 PM Resurrection of Our Lord, Philadelphia
Thursday 11/12/2009 4:00 PM Saint Ephrem, Bensalem
Saturday 11/21/2009 10:00 AM Saint Francis de Sales, Lenni
Sunday 11/22/2009 2:00 PM Saint Catherine of Siena, Horsham
Tuesday 11/24/2009 4:00 PM Saint John Fisher, Boothwyn

Saturday 12/05/2009 11:00 AM Our Lady of Grace, Penndel
Sunday 12/06/2009 12:00 Noon Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Bridgeport



CELEBRANT: MOST REVEREND JOSEPH P. MC FADDEN

DAY DATE TIME LOCATION
Friday 10/02/2009 4:00 PM
AND Our Lady of Calvary, Philadelphia
Saturday 10/03/2009 10:00 AM
Tuesday 10/27/2009 4:00 PM Immaculate Heart of Mary, Philadelphia
Wednesday 10/28/2009 4:00 PM Christ the King, Philadelphia
Thursday 10/29/2009 4:00 PM Sacred Heart of Jesus, Philadelphia

Wednesday 11/04/2009 4:00 PM Our Lady of Fatima, Secane
Thursday 11/05/2009 4:00 PM Queen of Peace, Ardsley
Friday 11/06/2009 4:00 PM Saint Anne, Philadelphia
Monday 11/09/2009 4:00 PM Saint Joseph the Worker, Fallsington
Tuesday 11/10/2009 4:00 PM Saint Martin of Tours, New Hope
Wednesday 11/11/2009 4:00 PM Saint Michael the Archangel, Levittown
Thursday 11/12/2009 4:00 PM Saint Anthony of Padua, Ambler


CELEBRANT: MOST REVEREND DANIEL E. THOMAS

DAY DATE TIME LOCATION

Sunday 10/25/2009 3:00 PM Saint Vincent de Paul, Philadelphia

Saturday 11/07/2009 9:30 AM & 12:30 PM Corpus Christi, Lansdale
Sunday 11/08/2009 2:00 PM Saint Richard, Philadelphia
Monday 11/09/2009 4:00 PM Saint Joseph, Ambler
Wednesday 11/11/2009 4:00 PM Saint Bernard, Philadelphia
Saturday 11/21/2009 10:30 AM & 2:00 PM Saint Anastasia, Newtown Square
Sunday 11/22/2009 11:00 AM Saint John of the Cross, Roslyn
Monday 11/23/2009 4:00 PM Saint Isaac Jogues, Wayne
Tuesday 11/24/2009 4:00 PM Saint Veronica, Philadelphia

Wednesday 12/02/2009 4:00 PM Incarnation of Our Lord, Philadelphia


CELEBRANT: MOST REVEREND TIMOTHY C. SENIORM

DAY DATE TIME LOCATION

Sunday 10/11/2009 11:00 AM Saint Thomas Aquinas, Croydon
Monday 10/19/2009 4:00 PM Saint William, Philadelphia
Sunday 10/25/2009 3:00 PM Holy Trinity, Morrisville
Tuesday 10/27/2009 4:00 PM Saint Kevin, Springfield

Sunday 11/01/2009 12:00 Noon Saint Martha, Philadelphia
Wednesday 11/04/2009 4:00 PM Saint Rose of Lima, North Wales
Saturday 11/07/2009 10:00 AM Our Lady of Fatima, Bensalem
Sunday 11/08/2009 11:15 AM Holy Redeemer Chinese Apostolate
Tuesday 11/10/2009 4:00 PM Saint Nicholas of Tolentine Philadelphia
Sunday 11/22/2009 11:00 AM Divine Mercy, Philadelphia
Monday 11/23/2009 4:30 PM Our Lady of Charity, Brookhaven
Monday 11/30/2009 4:00 PM Presentation B.V.M., Cheltenham

Tuesday 12/01/2009 4:00 PM Holy Saviour, Linwood

Saturday 12/12/2009 10:30 AM Saint John Bosco, Hatboro

CELEBRANT: MOST REVEREND LOUIS A. DE SIMONE

DAY DATE TIME LOCATION

Saturday 10/10/2009 11:00 AM Saint Margaret, Narberth
Saturday 10/31/2009 10:00 AM Sacred Heart, Swedesburg

Thursday 11/05/2009 4:00 PM Mother of Divine Grace, Philadelphia
Thursday 11/19/2009 4:00 PM Saint Madeline, Ridley Park
Saturday 11/21/2009 10:00 AM Saint Dorothy, Drexel Hill

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Saint John's Hospice, now in its 46th year of providing shelter and food to homeless men of Philadelphia, will honor its staff of volunteers and donors at an Open House celebrating its life and mission.

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, and Archbishop Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York, have placed a friendly wager on the outcome of the 2009 World Series.

These two long-time friends spoke on Tuesday evening to settle the terms of the bet. If the Phillies win, Archbishop Dolan will ship a dozen bagels to the City of Brotherly Love; if the Yankees prevail, Cardinal Rigali will send a case of Tastykakes to the Big Apple.

Archbishop Dolan said, "Cardinal Rigali is one of my closest and dearest friends; for several years he even served as my Archbishop so I feel a particular loyalty to him. I know he has exquisite taste in most matters. I just wish he had better taste in baseball teams."

Cardinal Rigali said, "I have great esteem for Archbishop Dolan. He is a gifted spiritual leader who has been a true friend for many years. That is why I am so sorry he will be disappointed when the Phillies successfully defend their World Championship. We have the cream cheese ready for the bagels that I know will be arriving shortly after the Repeat in the City of Brotherly and Sisterly love."


Contacts:
Archdiocese of Philadelphia:
Donna Farrell, Director of Communications
215-587-3747 or [email protected] or [email protected]

Archdiocese of New York
Joseph Zwilling, Director of Communications
646-794-2997
[email protected]

Contact
 
 
 

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, has appointed Mrs. Judy Owens as the first Principal of the new Pope John Paul II High School and Sister Janet Purcell, IHM, as its first Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs, effective immediately.

Mrs. Owens and Sr. Janet will be responsible for preparing for the opening of Pope John Paul II, scheduled for September 2010 in Upper Providence Township, Montgomery County. In addition, Mrs. Owens and Sr. Janet will concurrently serve as the Interim Principal and Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs of St. Pius X High School in Pottstown, Montgomery County, and Kennedy-Kenrick Catholic High School in Norristown, Montgomery County, respectively. Previously, Owens was Principal at Kennedy-Kenrick. She also served as Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs and chairperson of the Science department at St. Pius where she worked for over 18 years. Sr. Janet served as Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs, Assistant Principal for Student Services and chairperson of the Mathematics department during her 16-year tenure at Kennedy-Kenrick.

Additional information about enrollment in Pope John Paul II High School is available online at www.PJPHS.org. The school's website will be updated with the latest construction progress and registration information. For information on all of the schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, visit www.catholicschools-phl.org.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will preside at the blessing and dedication of the new All Souls Cemetery in West Brandywine Township, Chester County. The cemetery sits on 185 acres; 25 of which are developed. The blessing will take place at the base of a large stone cross.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate the 47th annual Mass in thanksgiving for the canonization of Saint Martin de Porres, the patron Saint of Universal Brotherhood.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Student attendance in the ten Archdiocesan high schools located in the City of Philadelphia* averaged 93% most days this week; as parents, teachers and administrators worked together to get students to school each day.

Ms. Mary E. Rochford, Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, said, "It has been extremely gratifying to see that despite the SEPTA strike, daily attendance figures at our Archdiocesan high schools have been well above 90 percent. I am proud of our administrators, teachers and staff and, in a special way, our parents and students, for their determined efforts to find an alternate means of transportation to school at this difficult time. I am also most thankful to everyone for their dedication and sacrifice."

Approximately 75 percent of Archdiocesan students are eligible to receive transpasses to ride Septa buses or subways to school. This week, parents arranged carpools, students rode trains and walked blocks or even miles to school. One student walked eight miles from his home to Roman Catholic High School in center city Philadelphia. "To see such amazing daily attendance figures is the best feedback we, as educators, can receive regarding the value being placed on Catholic Education," said Ms. Rochford. "We have learned through the years that it is tough times such as these that bring out the best in our faculty, students and parents."


Attendance Week of November 2, 2009
Attendance for Tuesday, November 3, 2009 averaged 80 percent
Attendance for Wednesday, November 4, 2009 averaged 93 percent
Attendance for Thursday, November 5, 2009 averaged 93 percent
Attendance for Friday, November 6, 2009 averaged 93 percent

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

On Tuesday, November 10 and Wednesday, November 11, 2009, schools across the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will honor and thank veterans and active military personnel to commemorate Veterans Day.

Tuesday, November 10 at 9:30 a.m.

Epiphany of Our Lord School, 1248 Jackson Street, Philadelphia, will welcome the parish's service men and women and veterans for a prayer service followed by a ceremony in which students will present the guests with cards and letters of appreciation. After the ceremony, all will be invited to a continental breakfast where the students will have the opportunity to interact with the military personnel and veterans.

Wednesday, November 11 at 8:35 a.m.

St. Hubert High School, 7320 Torresdale Avenue, Philadelphia, will honor veterans with an assembly featuring excerpts from a book of poems entitled "Uprooted: Search for Serenity" by Michelle McCloskey Alicea, a 1994 graduate of Saint Hubert. Alicea wrote the book during her brother Kevin's recovery from double leg amputation caused by an IED explosion in Afghanistan. The book gives insight into the family's journey of recovery. A portion of the proceeds of the book, to be released on November 11, 2009, will go to The Wounded Warrior Project, to benefit other disabled vets. Following the reading, Alicea will take questions from the students.

Wednesday, November 11 at 10:00 a.m.

St. William Parish School, 6238 Rising Sun Avenue, Philadelphia, will celebrate Veterans Day with veterans from the Philadelphia Protestant Home, Crest-Lawn American Legion Post #832, Rising Sun Post #2819 and their Ladies Auxiliary at the Lawncrest Recreation Center, 6000 Rising Sun Avenue, Philadelphia. The students will take part in a flag-raising ceremony, listen to speeches from retired military personnel, present their award-winning 5th grade essays, and view a completed patriotic mural.

Back at St. William Parish School, the 5th grade will make thank you cards for the men and women who have served our country. Veterans Day will also serve as the kick-off to the school's "Sock It To The Troops" initiative, which will involve the students collecting white socks through February, before mailing them to the troops for Valentine's Day.

Wednesday, November 11 at 2:00 p.m.

St. John the Baptist Parish School, 4040 Durham Road, Ottsville, Bucks County, will honor veterans from the American Legion Post #399 by performing patriotic songs and words of freedom. In addition, an eighth grade student will portray Francis Scott Key in a brief dramatic piece explaining the words of our National Anthem.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia is hosting Catholic Life Congress 2009, an educational gathering for laity, religious, deacons and priests. The theme of this years program is Go Forth Transform all Things in Christ. The program is designed for those who wish to learn more about the Church, its teachings and practices for all who serve in leadership positions in the Church. Most Reverend Robert P. Maginnis, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate Mass at 9:30 a.m. Catholic Life Congress features a keynote speaker, presentations and workshops and will be held:

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia recognizes five of its school administrators as Distinguished Principals for their compassion and willingness to learn the most current educational best practices and their dedication to passing those skills on to their faculties and students.

"It is our honor to acknowledge such excellent administrators within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia," said Mary Rochford, Superintendent of Schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. "The honored principals are truly dedicated to the mission of Catholic education and work tirelessly each day to bring that mission to life in our schools through our students and teachers."

The Office of Catholic Education presented the Distinguished Principal awards to all five principals at a ceremony during its recent principals' conference.

Distinguished Principal Award Recipients

- Ms. Nancy Matteo, Principal of St. Andrew Parish School, Newtown, Bucks County
-Mrs. Debbie Jaster, Principal of St. Joseph-St. Robert School, Warrington, Bucks County
- Sister Margaret Rose, IHM Principal of Ss. Simon and Jude Parish School, West Chester, Chester County
- Sister Lawrence Elizabeth, SSJ, Principal of Stella Maris School, Philadelphia
- Sister Cheryl Hillig, DC, Principal of DePaul Catholic School, Philadelphia

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

The live theatrical one-man drama VIANNEY, performed by Leonardo Defilippis, will be
performed at several parishes across the Archdiocese of Philadelphia on November 30 -
December 4, 2009.

This production is touring the U.S. as a part of the worldwide celebration of the Year of the
Priesthood, declared by Pope Benedict XVI. Over the last few years, the scandals that have
wracked the Catholic Church have damaged the reputation of this ministry, and have
tainted the public's understanding of what it means to be a priest. As a result, priests and
laity have been hesitant to encourage vocations to the priesthood in their congregations and
families. In response to this crisis and to reinvigorate and inspire fervent prayer for
vocations and a new and deeper understanding of this most important calling, Pope
Benedict XVI has declared a Year of the Priesthood from June 2009 through June 2010, and
has chosen the beloved Saint John Vianney as the patron of this year, and as the patron of
all the priests of the world. VIANNEY is a perfect introduction to the saint, and gives a new
and encouraging answer to the question, 'What is a priest?'

John Vianney, commonly known as the Curé of Ars, lived in the era following the French
Revolution, which had decimated the Catholic faith in France. A poor peasant,
incompetent in his studies of Latin and theology, he was ordained anyway because of the
shortage of priests. Vianney was then sent off to the obscure village of Ars, where the
people had fallen into decadence, crime and debauchery. In his determination to save
every single soul put into his care, he encountered tremendous resistance, and even violent
supernatural attacks. Many nights, witnesses attested, the furniture was thrown around
the rectory supernaturally, and the next morning the Curé emerged bruised and exhausted.
Vianney courageously overcomes these attacks, and succeeds not only in reforming the
lives of his parishioners, but also in drawing, by his holiness and his ability to read souls,
hundreds of thousands of pilgrims to the tiny parish. Sixteen hours a day were spent in the
cramped confessional, and people were willing to wait in line for days for a few minutes of
his counsel. Vianney himself found the onslaught difficult to bear, and even tried to escape
to a monastery to live and pray in peace. In the end, however, he returned to his flock,
recognizing his role as 'the shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep.'

'I find the character of John Vianney extremely endearing,' says Defilippis. 'He was a
truly eccentric character, wearing a ragged cassock, living on a diet of nothing but one
potato a day, yet sparing no expense for the church or his children. His love and concern
for the salvation of every single person he encountered came through in his every word and
action. There is an urgency in him that is extraordinarily compelling and convicting.'

Leonardo Defilippis is best known for his direction and starring role in the feature film
THÉRÈSE, which generated phenomenal grassroots support and played in mainstream
movie theaters for an unprecedented 70 weeks and is now in DVD release. His non-profit
company Saint Luke Productions has, for 30 years, produced live, film and television
dramas on the scriptures and the lives of the saints. Their live productions have toured the
U.S., Canada, and Europe, with audiences totaling more than one million people. Their
film productions have received numerous prestigious awards, and have been seen by
audiences all over the world.

VIANNEY is suitable for ages 12 and up. Admission for all performances will be a free-will
offering. The tour is sponsored by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

Contact
 
 
 

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, presented a case of Tastykakes to Archbishop Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York today. The World Series wager exchange took place during a break at the annual meeting of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in Baltimore, MD.

Cardinal Rigali and Archbishop Dolan made the bet on the outcome of the 2009 World Series between the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Yankees, which the Yankees won, four games to two.

Cardinal Rigali also sent the following letter to Archbishop Dolan:

Congratulations, my good friend, on the New York Yankees' Game 6 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies which made you the winner of our spirited World Series' wager. Though I had planned to enjoy your New York bagels with Philadelphia Cream Cheese after another Phillies World Championship, the loss of our wager stings a little less knowing that the forthcoming Tastykake gift package is going to you and how much you will enjoy the taste of Philadelphia.

Since a talented nucleus is returning for the Phillies next season, I join so many in Philadelphia in already looking forward to next season and a possible rematch with you!

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, invites families and individuals throughout the Archdiocese to the Bless the Baby Jesus Devotion and Second Sunday of Advent Mass. Cardinal Rigali initiated this event four years ago in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Bless the Baby Jesus Devotion is sponsored by the Family Life Office and Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

Everyone is encouraged to bring an image or figurine of the Baby Jesus, perhaps from their family Nativity Crèche, to be blessed by Cardinal Rigali at the end of Mass. The Archdiocesan Boy Choir and the Cathedral Basilica Choir will provide music.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

On Thursday, November 19, 2009 at 12:45pm, 330 students interested in being part of the first freshman class of Pope John Paul II High School will see their new school for the first time during Eighth Grade Visitation Day. Following a morning program at Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, the eighth graders will travel to Pope John Paul II and see firsthand the latest construction progress and anticipated technology installations. Each student will receive a Pope John Paul II hard hat and participate in a group photo in front of the building.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

La Arquidiócesis de Filadelfia está celebrando el decimo aniversario de su programa de radio hispano titulado La Voz de Dios en las Voces de Nuestros Pueblos. Este programa en español, de 30 minutos, es una herramienta evangélica de la Iglesia que lleva un mensaje espiritual y pastoral a la comunidad hispana; salió al aire por primera vez el 28 de noviembre de 1999.

La Voz de Dios en las Voces de Nuestros Pueblos es una difusión basada en el Evangelio que lleva la Palabra de Dios a la comunidad hispana. Cada emisión presenta acontecimientos importantes en la comunidad hispana y permite a los oyentes la oportunidad de orar por los demás. El cardenal Justin Rigali, arzobispo de Filadelfia, cierra cada programa con un mensaje especial para los oyentes. En un mensaje especial grabado para el décimo aniversario del programa, el Cardenal Rigali dijo; "Durante los últimos diez años, el programa ha llevado, domingo tras domingo, la voz de Dios al pueblo proclamando el santo Evangelio, palabras sagradas que fortalecen la fe... y nos enseñan a amar".

La Voz de Dios en las Voces de Nuestros Pueblos es producido y conducido por Jhoselyn Martínez, en la Oficina de Comunicaciones de la Arquidiócesis de Filadelfia. La señora Martínez es un feligrés en la parroquia San William, en el noreste de Filadelfia. El momento más memorable de la señora Martínez es ganar el prestigioso Premio Gabriel por la cobertura de la canonización de Santa Catalina Drexel en el 2000. El programa es presentado conjuntamente con el señor José Márquez, feligrés de Visitación BVM en el norte de Filadelfia.

El programa se puede escuchar cada domingo en:
" WEMG Mega 1310 AM a las10:30 a.m. - Condados Filadelfia y Camden
" WISP Holy Spirit Radio 1570 AM a las 4:00 p.m.- Condados Bucks, Delaware, Montgomery y parte de Filadelfia
" WCOJ Holy Spirit Radio 1420 AM a las 4:00 p.m. - Condado Chester

Para más información acerca de La Voz de Dios en las Voces de Nuestros Pueblos por favor, llame a la Oficina de Comunicaciones al 215-587-3747.

Click here to read the English version of the press release.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its Hispanic Radio Show titled La Voz de Dios en las Voces de Nuetros Pueblos, which means The Voice of God in the Voices of the People. The 30 minute Spanish-language radio program is an evangelical tool for the Church delivering a spiritual and pastoral message to the Hispanic community. The radio program first aired on November 28, 1999.

La Voz de Dios en las Voces de Nuestros Pueblos is a Gospel-based broadcast that brings the Word of God to the Hispanic community. Each broadcast features important happenings in the Hispanic community and allows listeners the opportunity to pray for each other. Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, closes each program with a special message for the listeners. In a special message recorded for the program's 10th Anniversary, Cardinal Rigali said, "during the last 10 years, La Voz has taken, Sunday through Sunday, the voice of God to the people proclaiming the Holy Gospel, holy words that strengthen the Faith and teach us to love."

La Voz de Dios en las Voces de Nuestros Pueblos, is produced and hosted by Jhoselyn Martinez in the Office for Communications for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Ms. Martínez is a parishioner at St. William Parish in Northeast Philadelphia. The most memorable moment for Ms. Martinez is winning the prestigious Gabriel Award for the coverage of the canonization of St. Katharine Drexel in 2000. The show is co-hosted by José Marquéz a parishioner at Visitation B.V.M. in North Philadelphia.

The show can be heard each Sunday on:
" WEMG Mega 1310 AM at 10:30 a.m. - Philadelphia and Camden Counties
" WISP Holy Spirit Radio 1570 AM at 4:00 p.m. - Bucks, Delaware, Montgomery and part of Philadelphia County
" WCOJ Holy Spirit Radio 1420 AM at 4:00 p.m. - Chester County

For more information about La Voz de Dios en las Voces de Nuestros Pueblos please contact the Office for Communications at 215-587-3747.

Click here to read the Spanish version of the press release.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will be the celebrant and homilist for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass in the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. Our Lady of Guadalupe is the Patroness of the Americas. Music for the Mass will be provided by a mariachi band. The Mass will be followed by the mañanitas, which consists of the serenading of Our Lady Guadalupe, with typical Guadalupe hymns played by the mariachis, the participation of other choirs and a children's pastorelas group. The celebration will conclude at 11:00 p.m.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

On Tuesday, November 24, 2009 students, staff and teachers at Our Lady of Confidence Day School located at St. David Parish in Willow Grove will host a day of gratitude to recognize and celebrate the 45 volunteers from the local Sherwin Williams paint stores who donated their time and supplies to paint the school. This summer more than 45 volunteers painted all of the classrooms, offices and hallways at Our Lady of Confidence Day School, which serves children with special needs. As part of the celebration, the volunteers will be given a tour of the school, take part in a prayer service and attend a luncheon.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

For the 42nd year in a row, teens from across the Archdiocese will be gathering each day for two straight weeks to collect, sort, wrap and tag toys that will be delivered to over 650 families in need. Twenty-five community groups will also receive toys from Operation Santa Claus for children served by their agencies. The student volunteers are members of either the Community Service Corps in their Catholic high school or their parish youth ministry program. The "Elves" will be working on:

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

It is our understanding that on Friday, December 4, 2009, police in Marlton, New Jersey filed a weapons charge against Mr. Brandon Holiday, a teacher at Cardinal O'Hara High School. It is our further understanding that there is an ongoing investigation in Delaware County into Mr. Holiday's interactions with a minor. No charges have been filed regarding the latter investigation.

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia Office of Catholic Education and Cardinal O'Hara High School immediately placed Mr. Holiday on administrative leave on Friday, December 4th, pending the police investigation.

We first learned of this investigation last week from police. They contacted the school in the course of their investigation. The school has been cooperating fully with authorities and will continue to do so.

Mr. Holiday has been a science teacher at Cardinal O'Hara High School since the 2007-2008 school year. He previously served as a substitute teacher at Little Flower Catholic High School from January to June 2007. He had participated in the Archdiocesan Safe Environment training and had all of the necessary background checks.

Ms. Mary E. Rochford, Superintendent of Catholic Education, said, "We are devastated to learn of these allegations. We have sent letters to school families because we want parents to hear this news directly from us. If students feel they need to talk about these events in the days ahead the school guidance offices have resources to offer support and outreach. Every day we work to protect young people at all of our schools and provide them with a safe and caring learning environment. Nothing is more important than the safety and security of the young people in our care."

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia will honor five remarkable Catholic school graduates for their professional and personal accomplishments, when they are each granted a 2010 Distinguished Graduate Award during Catholic Schools week celebration. Also known as the Archdiocesan Hall of Fame, the Distinguished Graduate Awards have a grand tradition of honoring Catholic school alumni who have not only achieved professional success in their chosen fields, but also have demonstrated a commitment to living their lives by the Gospel Values that guide and define Catholic education in the Archdiocese.

"Our Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia have graduated thousands of academically, artistically, and spiritually gifted students," said Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia. "The Distinguished Graduate Awards allow us to honor those alumni who, through their continuing commitment to the values of a Catholic life, have inspired an appreciation for the Catholic school tradition."

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will host the 54th annual Cardinal's Christmas Party for Children for approximately 400 children who received services from community or residential agencies of Catholic Social Services this year. The party begins with a colorful parade, followed by presents and entertainment.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Throughout December, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's schools will celebrate the Christmas season with various service projects.

Friday, December 11, 2009

St. John the Evangelist Parish School, 752 Big Oak Road, Morrisville, Bucks County second grade students will create special blankets, make Christmas cards and collect books for the children at Christ's Home for Children, an organization established to serve needy or neglected children and youth. The second grade students, along with many St. John the Evangelist families, will make the blankets and cards on Friday, December 11 at 1:30 p.m.

Saturday, December 12, 2009

St. Hilary of Poitiers Parish School, 920 Susquehanna Road, Rydal, Montgomery County will host a Christmas party at St. Vincent Soup Kitchen, 109 East Price Street in the Germantown section of Philadelphia, on Saturday, December 12 at 10 a.m. Over the past few weeks, the students have collected building blocks, stuffed animals, board games, and dolls, which they will present as gifts at the Christmas party.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

St. John the Evangelist Parish School, 752 Big Oak Road, Morrisville, Bucks County will again participate in the "Stocking for Soldiers" project. Students collect donations to fill stockings with food times, toiletries and gift cards. They will pack the stockings they stuffed for the 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team soldiers on Wednesday, December 16 at 1 p.m.

Friday, December 18, 2009

St. Andrew Parish School, 535 Mason Avenue, Drexel Hill, Delaware Countywill spread the Christmas spirit by visiting with and caroling for members of the Drexel Hill community who are home bound. Sixth, seventh and eighth grade carolers will meet at St. Andrew Parish School at 3 p.m. on Friday, December 18.

Monday, December 21, 2009

St. Andrew Parish School, 535 Mason Avenue, Drexel Hill, Delaware Countywill celebrate the Christmas season with residents of the Fair Acres Long-Term Care Facility located at 340 North Middletown Road in Media, Delaware County. The students will sing Christmas carols and play music for the residents from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Fair Acres facility.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

This holiday season, several elementary schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will present live nativities on their campuses. Each school's live nativity performance will tell the biblical story of Christmas. All will be free and open to the public.

"Live nativities are a fun way to teach children, and remind us all, of the true meaning of Christmas," said Mary Rochford, Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. "We invite the public to join us in celebrating the holiday season by viewing one of the live nativities in the region."

St. Joseph-St. Robert, 40 Valley Road, Warrington, Bucks County

On Thursday December 17, 2009 students from St. Joseph-Saint Robert, along with youth from St. Robert's Parish, will present "O Come, Let Us Adore Him: A Live Nativity." There will be two performances on the school grounds, one at 7:00 p.m. and one at 8:00 p.m. Students in grades 4 through 12 will perform in the outdoor show, which is set to music and narration. Live animals, including sheep, goats, a donkey, and a llama, will also be featured in the show. Refreshments will be served in the school cafeteria following the performance. For more information, visit www.strobpym.org.

Maternity BVM Parish School, 9322 Old Bustleton Avenue, Philadelphia

Maternity BVM Parish School will present a live nativity production on Monday, December 21, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. Maternity BVM students, along with youth from Maternity BVM Parish, will perform in the show. Following the performance, guests are invited to help decorate the parish Christmas trees, while the students sing Christmas carols.

St. Kevin Parish School, 200 W. Sproul Road, Springfield, Delaware County

On Tuesday, December 22, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. kindergarten through eighth grade students at St. Kevin Parish School will perform in the school's annual Christmas show. The show will feature eighth grade students telling the story of the first Christmas, while the younger students perform a variety of Christmas songs.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Christmas Eve: Cardinal Justin Rigali is the celebrant and homilist of all Masses
- 5:00 p.m. Christmas Vigil Mass
- 7:30 p.m. Christmas Vigil Mass

Midnight Mass
- Please note that beginning at 11:00 p.m. the Cathedral Basilica Choir and the Cathedral Basilica Brass Quartet will provide prelude music.
- 12:00 a.m. Mass - Celebrated by Cardinal Rigali with music provided by the Cathedral Basilica Choir and the Cathedral Basilica Brass Quartet.

Masses will be streamed live on the Archdiocesan website www.archphila.org

Editor's Note:There WILL be a mult-box feed for the Christmas Vigil Masses and for Midnight Mass. Crews are asked to enter the parking lot on 17th Street between Vine and Race Streets. Please call Dan Kearns at 215-888-0305 for assistance.

-Christmas Day in the Cathedral: 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. There will not be a mult-box feed.

Masses will be celebrated by the priests of the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. Media planning to cover any Masses at the Cathedral are asked to call the Cathedral Rectory at 215-561-1313 and leave a message.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, announces that Pope Benedict XVI has conferred Papal Honors on eighteen priests of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. All receive the title of "Monsignor," an honor for the priests themselves, the parishes and people they serve, and the whole Archdiocese.
There are three ranks of Monsignor, two of which are Prelate of Honor and Chaplain of his Holiness. Diocesan priests receive the honor from the Pope, at the request of the diocesan bishop, in recognition of their contribution to the local Church through the distinguished exercise of their priestly ministry. This honor for the priest is a symbol of his deep communion with the Holy Father and his apostolic ministry.
Fourteen priests were honored with the title of Chaplain of His Holiness. Three priests were named Prelates of Honor. One priest, already a Chaplain of His Holiness, was elevated to Prelate of Honor. Among those honored is the oldest priest in the Archdiocese, Reverend Monsignor Daniel J. Kehoe, who is 97 years old and was ordained in 1939.
Cardinal Rigali said, "This honor bestowed by our Holy Father is a blessing for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. It holds special significance during this Year of the Priest, a time for priests to grow in holiness and live more fully united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and for all the members of the Church to recall the essential role of priests among us and in society."
Cardinal Rigali will preside at Vespers on Sunday, January 17, 2010 at 5:00 p.m. in the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul during which the Papal Honors will be acknowledged. Everyone is welcome.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will co-host his monthly Big Talker 1210 AM radio talk show with moderator Dom Giordano live from "Varalli" Restaurant , as part of the CBS Radio station's day of charitable giving on Monday, December 21, 2009 at 7:00 p.m.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747

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Over 160 teams consisting of four teenagers per team will spend Christmas Eve delivering toys to families in need throughout the Philadelphia area. The teen volunteers from Archdiocesan youth programs will meet at one of three locations including St. Joseph's Preparatory School to pick up their toys and their Santa and elf costumes.

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will visit the men and women of the Montgomery County Correctional Facility at Eagleville, PA to celebrate Mass and speak to the residents. Cardinal Rigali has made prison visits and Mass a part of his annual Christmas ministry. The 2009 Christmas Mass marks Cardinal Rigali's first visit to the Montgomery County facility.

Prison Chaplain Drew Deagler and Warden Julio M. Alagrin will serve as hosts. Reverend Monsignor Thomas Murray, Pastor of Visitation BVM Parish, Trooper; Reverend Edward Kelly, parochial vicar of Visitation BVM; and Reverend Monsignor Ignatius Murray, of Visitation BVM; who minister to the inmates, will concelebrate with the Cardinal. Inmates will participate in the liturgy as readers and altar servers.

Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director
215-587-3747