Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, will accept the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul Keys & Sword Award on behalf of the priests of the Archdiocese in recognition of their dedicated service to the faithful of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

The Keys & Sword Award acknowledges those whose actions reflect the Gospel values of faith, selfless service, personal sacrifice, respect and valor. This year's event comes as the universal Church and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia officially close out the Year of the Priest, which has been celebrated since June, 2009. Catholics across the Archdiocese are invited to join Cardinal Justin Rigali in congratulating the Archdiocesan priests for their award on Sunday, June 20, beginning with 11 a.m. Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. The award ceremony and luncheon will follow at the Union League.

Sunday, June 20, 2010
11 a.m. Mass
Cathedral Basilica of Ss. Peter & Paul
18th & Vine Street
Luncheon to follow:
The Union League
140 South Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA

Proceeds from the third annual event will be placed in the "Keys & Sword Fund" which was established in 2008 to foster the Sacred Music Program, Visitors Programs and to strengthen understanding of the artistic and historical significance of the Cathedral to the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the City of Philadelphia. The Keys & Sword Award of the Cathedral Basilica of SS Peter and Paul is taken from the symbols of the patron saints of the Cathedral. The award, bestowed by the Mother Church of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, was established in 2008. Charles Ramsey, Commissioner of Police for the City of Philadelphia, was the 2009 recipient. Reverend Monsignor James Howard, the longest serving (27 years) rector of the Cathedral Basilica, was the inaugural honoree in 2008.

For tickets, contact 215-561-1313 or purchase online at www.sspeterpaulcathedral.catholicweb.com.

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Contact
Kevin Mulligan
Associate Director for Communications
215-587-3747