The Archdiocese of Philadelphia will host A Celebration of Gratitude In Honor Of Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua to commemorate Cardinal Bevilacqua's 80th birthday (June 17, 2003) as well as his fifteen years as Archbishop of Philadelphia. The celebration will consist of a Mass followed by a dessert reception. The Archdiocese extended an open invitation to all parishioners.

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia has 1.4 million Catholics and 279 parishes in the five county region (Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery Counties).

Cardinal Bevilacqua will be the celebrant and homilist for the Mass. The Most Reverend Robert P. Maginnis, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will offer concluding remarks. The dessert reception will immediately follow the Mass. More than 1500 are expected to attend including bishops, priests, deacons, religious men and women and parishioners.

Wednesday, July 16, 2003
6:30 p.m. Mass
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia

Reception Immediately Following Mass
Wyndham Philadelphia Hotel
17th and Vine Streets
Philadelphia

During the reception at the Wyndham, Cardinal Bevilacqua will cut his birthday cake and greet guests in a receiving line. Donations of birthday cake will be made to three shelters in Philadelphia: Saint John's Hospice/Good Shepherd Program, Mercy Hospice and Saint Francis Inn.

Members of the media are welcome to videotape or photograph the Cardinal but no interviews will be granted. Media may conduct interviews with guests.

Editor's Note: Still cameras and reporters only will be permitted in the Cathedral. Videographers are kindly asked to use the video/audio mult-box feed in the Cathedral parking lot. Please enter on 17th Street between Vine and Race Streets. Crews will need either a live truck or a deck and a bnc connector. A staff person will be available to assist.















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Contact
Donna Farrell
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747