I extend my heartfelt congratulations and prayerful best wishes to all those whom the Holy Father has named as Cardinals. In particular, I am most pleased that my successor, Archbishop Justin Rigali, will be joining the College of Cardinals. Archbishop Rigali's appointment is a reflection of the Holy Father's confidence in him as a loyal bishop who continues to serve the Church faithfully. I know that he will offer wise counsel as well as great spiritual support to our Holy Father.

The news of this announcement is a source of great personal joy for me and for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Archbishop Rigali brings tremendous talents, gifts and strengths to his position. Archbishop Rigali will be a wise and loving shepherd of the faithful of the Archdiocese even as he accepts additional responsibilities as a Cardinal. It is an honor well deserved. The Catholic faithful should know that Archbishop Rigali reflects a deep love for Jesus, for the priesthood and for all God's people. I assure him both of my continued prayerful and fraternal support.

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Editor's Note: Archbishop Justin Rigali is currently Archbishop of Saint Louis and will be installed as Archbishop of Philadelphia on October 7th. You may wish to contact the Archdiocese of St. Louis Communications Office for additional information at 314-792-7631.

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Catherine L. Rossi
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