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October 3, 2002

STATEMENT OF ANTHONY CARDINAL BEVILACQUA
ARCHBISHOP OF PHILADELPHIA
REGARDING DEATH OF WALTER ANNENBERG

It was with great sadness that I learned of the death of Ambassador Walter H. Annenberg. His generosity had a wide ranging impact on many areas of American life, from education to the arts. I had always held Ambassador Annenberg in high personal regard for his deep commitment to philanthropy. Ambassador Annenberg used his great wealth to strengthen and fund institutions important to the quality of life here in Philadelphia and throughout the country. His unselfish spirit was an example for everyone and his passing will leave a deep void in the world of charitable giving.

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia benefitted from Ambassador Annenberg's generosity throughout the years, most especially in the area of Catholic education. As someone who believed strongly in the promise of quality education, Ambassador Annenberg made a significant gift to the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in the form of an endowed grant which was used to bolster the Tuition Assistance Program serving needy students. Approximately 100 students received the first grants for the current academic school year. In 1992, The Annenberg Foundation, acting through Ambassador Annenberg and his wife, Leonore, awarded a challenge grant to the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, which helped the Archdiocese support the diocesan high school system.

I extend to Mrs. Annenberg and the entire family my deepest sympathies and assurance of prayers for God's consolation at this time of sorrow.

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