The Most Reverend Robert P. Maginnis, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will celebrate the annual Mass for Persons with Disabilities. This year's theme is Celebrating Welcome and Access. The Homilist will be Reverend William E. Dean. The Mass is sponsored by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's Department of Pastoral Care for Persons with Disabilities, which together with parishes and affiliated church organizations are committed in the effort to raise awareness and create access for people with all abilities to the life of the Church.

Sunday, April 30, 2006
2:00 p.m. Musical Prelude
2:30 p.m. Mass
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway

A prelude Elemental Interaction just prior to the entrance procession will be performed by the HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy and The Fusion 2 Dance Company. Some Assembly Required Singers and Musicians will provide the liturgical music. Volunteers from area Catholic youth programs and high schools will assist in accommodating individuals with different abilities at the Mass.

Everyone is welcome to attend and participation is encouraged among individuals with disabilities, their families, friends, neighbors and caregivers. A reception will be held immediately following Mass in the Archdiocese Office Center at 222 North 17th Street. For more information please contact, 215-587-3530 or PCPDDEAF@adphila.org.

Editor's Note: Television cameras will not be permitted in the Cathedral. An audio and video mult-box feed will be provided in the parking lot of the Cathedral. Please enter on 17th Street, between Race and Vine Streets. Crews will need a bnc connector and a recording deck or a live truck. Reporters and still photographers will be permitted in the Cathedral.

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Contact
Meredith V. Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747