An all-faith prayer service will be held this evening to remember the victims of the tragedy at Virginia Tech University. Most Reverend Joseph R. Cistone, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, and other faith leaders from various religious traditions in the City of Philadelphia, will join together in prayerful support for all those impacted by this senseless event. The clergy members will walk from the Newman Catholic Community Center, at the University of Pennsylvania (Newman Hall, 3720 Chestnut Street) to the church.

7:25 p.m. Procession
7:30 p.m. Prayer Service
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
St. Agatha-St. James Catholic Church
38th & Chestnut Streets
Philadelphia

Bishop Cistone will offer remarks on behalf of Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, who departs for Rome this evening and is unable to attend.

Cardinal Rigali issued the following statement yesterday regarding the shootings:

I was distressed and deeply saddened to learn of the deadly shooting rampage at Virginia Tech University. My prayers are with the families of those who died and with all who were injured and traumatized in this senseless tragedy. I pray that God will grant them comfort and strength in the difficult days ahead. The faithful in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia express their prayerful solidarity.

Violence leaves its wake of death and injury on the entire community. All human life is a gift and young people are especially precious to the Lord. May the Holy Spirit console everyone involved at this time of sadness and pain.

###

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747