Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, has asked that parishes and schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia observe the statewide day of mourning called for by Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell on Friday, April 20, 2007. Cardinal Rigali asks that everyone in the Archdiocese join together in prayer for the victims, families and all of those affected in any way by the tragedy at Virginia Tech University.

* Cardinal Rigali has requested that all 270 parishes of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia toll their church bells at twelve noon and

* Cardinal Rigali has also asked that students in the Archdiocesan high schools and parish elementary schools stop for a moment of prayer at 12:00 p.m.

On the day of the shootings, Cardinal Rigali issued the following statement:

"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."

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Donna Farrell
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