Christ the King Parish in Northeast Philadelphia will hold a Mass of Appreciation in honor of local police officers and firefighters. The Mass of Appreciation coincides with the one-year anniversary of the death of Philadelphia Police Sgt. Patrick McDonald, who was killed in the line of duty on September 23, 2008. McDonald was a graduate of Christ the King School and Archbishop Ryan High School.

Reverend James A. Callahan, Pastor of Christ the King Parish, will be the celebrant and homilist. Most Reverend Joseph P. McFadden, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will preside and offer remarks. Reverend Joseph Shenosky, School Minister of Archbishop Ryan High School, will concelebrate.

10:00 a.m.
Sunday September 27, 2009
Christ the King Parish
3252 Chesterfield Road, Philadelphia 19114

A special blessing will be offered for more than 100 active and retired Philadelphia police officers, firefighters and civil servants who are parishioners of Christ the King parish.

As an added show of support, parishioners' homes will be illuminated Sunday evening by the more than 350 blue light bulbs purchased in support of the Police Cadet Program.

A reception will follow in the parish hall following the Mass of Appreciation.

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