Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, extends his prayerful support to the families of John F. Kennedy, Junior, his wife, Carolyn and her sister, Lauren Bessette. The three remain missing and are presumed dead after a plane crash this weekend near Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts.

"When I learned of the search this weekend, I immediately began praying for both families," said Cardinal Bevilacqua. "It must be a desperately painful time for the Kennedy and the Bessette families. I express my deep concern for the enormous anguish these families must endure. I hope that they will find strength in knowing that many people are keeping them in prayer. I sympathize with the suffering of these families duing this most difficult time of not not knowing what has happened to their loved ones."

Cardinal Bevilacqua said, "Time and time again, through many tragedies, the Kennedy family has had to find refuge in its faith. I hope they and the Bessette families will turn to God during their hour of need. I will pray for the souls of Carolyn and John F. Kennedy, Junior and Lauren Bessette and continue to pray for their loved ones who must cope with this tragic loss."

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Editor's Note:
Cardinal Bevilacqua will be saying Mass in Scranton today. He will be available to members of the media there. The Cardinal will return to Philadelphia this evening for his weekly Monday night radio show. If you are interested in arranging an interview, please call the Communications Office at 215-587-3747.

Contact
Cathy Rossi
Communications Director
215-587-3747