Governor Corbett Comments on Announcement of Philadelphia as Host for the Eighth World Meeting of Families

HARRISBURG, Pa., Feb. 25, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Tom Corbett today issued the following statement regarding the announcement by His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, and The Holy See of Philadelphia as the first North American host of the World Meeting of Families.  In addition to this confirmation, the Vatican also announced the official dates for this gathering, which will be September 22-27, 2015.

"I am delighted that Philadelphia – the birthplace of religious freedom in the United States – has been confirmed as the host for the Eighth World Meeting of Families in September 2015.  Today across Pennsylvania our places of worship are full of strong, persevering people of faith. This special event is not only an opportunity to welcome families from around the world, but an opportunity to celebrate the religious heritage and freedom that have built both our state and our nation."

"Men and women of faith played a profound role in building not only Philadelphia, but the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  We are a state that is enriched by our diversity of faiths. As the first ever North American host for the World Meeting of Families, I am confident that Pennsylvanians—of all faiths—will warmly welcome all those who will join us for this historic event."

Corbett has accepted Archbishop Chaput's invitation to serve as Honorary Co-Chair of the 2015 World Meeting of Families with Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter .

"Although I am unable to join Archbishop Chaput and Mayor Nutter in Philadelphia for today's announcement, I look forward to working closely with them not only to create an outstanding experience for the tens of thousands of visitors we will welcome in September 2015 but also, for all citizens of our Commonwealth who will join in this special event."

For more information, visit www.pa.gov.

Media contact:  Kelli Roberts , 717-783-1116

SOURCE Pennsylvania Office of the Governor

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