Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, invites families and individuals throughout the Archdiocese to a unique Advent Prayer Service - Bless the Baby Jesus. Cardinal Rigali initiated this event four years ago in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Bless the Baby Jesus is sponsored by the Family Life Office and Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

Everyone is encouraged to bring an image or figurine of the Baby Jesus, perhaps from their family Nativity Crèche, to be blessed by Cardinal Rigali during the service. The adult and youth choirs of St. Mary Magdalen Parish in Media, Delaware County will provide music.

3:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia

Advent is a time when Catholics prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus at Christmas. Bless the Baby Jesus is an opportunity to reinforce the central place of Jesus Christ within the family.

Families and individuals are also invited to support those in need during this holiday season by donating new infant clothing, infant formula or monetary donations for the less fortunate. Contributions will be given to the Archdiocesan Catholic Social Services' Family Service Centers and Residences for Women as well as Casa del Carmen.

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Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747