Pre-Order Pope Commemorative Book Now!

LOVE IS OUR MISSION: POPE FRANCIS IN AMERICA List Price: $19.99 pre-order now Remember Pope Francis’s first visit to the United States for years to come. In Love Is Our Mission: Pope Francis in America, dive into a rich collection of photos, events, official addresses, and more, drawn from the work of Catholic News Service photographers and journalists. This resource serves as a great commemorative gift and keepsake from the papal visit. Events include the first historical address from the pope to both houses of Congress, the pope's meeting at the White House with President Barack Obama, a historical address to the United Nations, Mass at Madison Square Gardens in New York City, Philadelphia’s World Meeting of Families, and more. This official commemorative edition is a joint publication of Franciscan Media, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, and Libreria Editrice Vaticana, the official publishing house of the Vatican.

Urgent Alert: Call These Senator NOW!

YOUR SENATOR MAY BE THE DECIDING VOTE TO STOP OBAMA’S DEAL WITH IRAN The following Senators have not yet decided whether or not they will support Obama’s deal: Senator Michael Bennet (CO) 202-224-5852  Senator Richard Blumenthal (CT) 202-224-2823  Senator Cory Booker (NJ) 202-224-3224  Senator Ben Cardin (MD) 202-224-4524  Senator Heidi Heitkamp (ND) 202-224-2043  Senator Joe Manchin (WV) 202-224-3954  Senator Mark Warner (VA) 202-224-2023 CALL THESE SENATORS NOW AND URGE THEM TO VOTE TO STOP THIS BAD DEAL! This deal would hand over billions of dollars to Iran to help our enemies in the Middle East and do nothing to stop Iran from developing a nuclear weapon in the long run. Incredibly, the United States has negotiated a deal that prohibits Americans from inspecting Iran’s nuclear sites! To stop this bad deal, it’s essential that these Senators hear from YOU before they announce their decisions. YOU CAN ACT RIGHT NOW BY CALLING AND TELLING THESE SENATORS TO PROTECT THE SECURITY INTERESTS OF THE UNITED STATES BY OPPOSING THE OBAMA IRAN DEAL! As early as next week, Congress will vote on a resolution to disapprove this terrible deal.  Make no mistake about it. This vote will come down to a handful of undecided Senators.  As this is being written, the Obama Administration and their allies are spending millions of dollars to pressure these Senators and others.  It’s up to you to respond. ACT NOW! CALL THESE SENATORS AND SAY “NO” TO THE IRAN DEAL. Senator Michael Bennet (CO) 202-224-5852  Senator Richard Blumenthal (CT) 202-224-2823  Senator Cory Booker (NJ) 202-224-3224  Senator Ben Cardin (MD) 202-224-4524  Senator Heidi Heitkamp (ND) 202-224-2043  Senator Joe Manchin (WV) 202-224-3954  Senator Mark Warner (VA) 202-224-2023

Because Every Life Is A 'Precious Gift From God'

Yes, The Silence Really Does Speak Volumes!

Chaput: Pope's Action Shows Commitment To Mercy

STATEMENT OF ARCHBISHOP CHARLES J. CHAPUT, O.F.M. CAP. REGARDING ABSOLUTION FOR THE SIN OF ABORTION Pope Francis' recent remarks on absolution for the sin of abortion demonstrate his commitment to all those in need of healing. With a special "Jubilee Year of Mercy" set to begin in December, the timing is very welcome. For many years now, parish priests have been given permission to absolve the sin of abortion here in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. But the practice has not been common in various other regions of the world. This action in no way diminishes the moral gravity of abortion. What it does do is make access to sacramental forgiveness easier for anyone who seeks it with a truly penitent heart.

Why This Guy Is Still The Real Deal

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie talks to Jimmy about spending time with Mitt Romney and his family for Wolfeboro, New Hampshire's July 4th parade.

And then he talks about being ignored at the GOP debates.
 

World's Mayors To Convene In Philadelphia

The World Meeting of Families - Philadelphia 2015 and the City of Philadelphia today announced the International Mayors Forum, which is a new event being added to the World Meeting of Families Congress. Co-sponsored by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and La Salle University, the International Mayors Forum will be held on Wednesday, September 23 at 6:00 p.m. at La Salle University's Tom Gola Arena. 

For the Forum, Mayors representing diverse cities around the world will come together to discuss the ways in which government at the local level can help strengthen and sustain families through public policy and advocacy.

The Vatican's Pontifical Council for the Family, which is the co-sponsor of the 2015 World Meeting of Families with the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, made this special request of Mayor Michael A. Nutter and the World Meeting of Families - Philadelphia 2015 in an effort to expand the global conversation about family. 

Seeking to examine how city governance, in the United States and around the world, can help to address the diverse issues facing families today, this panel will be an intimate 90-minute discussion of how good governance can positively affect families around the globe.

Those Mayors participating in the inaugural International Mayors Forum of the World Meeting of Families include:

• Mayor José Antonio Gali Fayad, Puebla, Mexico
• Mayor Mitchell J. Landrieu, City of New Orleans
• Mayor Ignazio Marino, Rome, Italy
• Mayor Michael A. Nutter, City of Philadelphia

Additional participating Mayors, as well as the moderator of the panel discussion, will be forthcoming in the next two weeks.

"Pope Francis has spurred positive dialogue about family across diverse faith traditions - and across borders," said Donna Crilley Farrell, Executive Director of the World Meeting of Families - Philadelphia 2015. "The International Mayors Forum will not only add to an already spectacular week leading up to the Holy Father's arrival in Philadelphia, but it will also continue the important discussion of family, showcasing the great work our city leaders do to keep families growing strong worldwide. It is an honor to join with Mayor Nutter, PwC and La Salle University to host this first-of-its-kind event for the World Meeting of Families."

"The first conversations surrounding this event occurred on our first trip to Rome, when I was honored to have been asked by The Pontifical Council for the Family to assist in curating this Forum," said Mayor Michael A. Nutter, City of Philadelphia. "Almost eighteen months later, I am excited to welcome these influential and thoughtful leaders to Philadelphia for this special event. As I have often shared, I believe the family is the cornerstone of our society, and families thrive most when supported well by its government, especially its local government. The panel coming together shares that perspective and I am honored to have them help launch this important event."

An invitation-only event, the International Mayors Forum will be attended by more than 1,700 guests, including government officials, religious leaders of many faiths, business professionals, educational leaders, college students and families, including World Meeting of Families Congress participants. Following the discussion, audience members will be provided the opportunity to engage with the panelists in Q&A.

"Rapid urbanization is bringing great attention to city leaders to create programs and policies that strengthen family ties and nurture the talent of the future," said Ed Lovelidge, Managing Partner, PwC - Philadelphia Metro. "PwC's CEO Survey demonstrates that talent is a key concern for businesses globally, so it's important to have discussions that center on how to support families and professionals at every stage of their careers. We are excited to bring the International Mayors Forum to life, especially on La Salle's campus, an urban university. PwC is proud to help cultivate this important discussion around issues of the global family, which is such an important aspect to the urbanization developments, and look forward to welcoming this outstanding panel of Mayors for this special event."

Colleen Hanycz, Ph.D., President of La Salle University commented, "Often we encounter families from varied economic situations and many of our students are the first in their families to experience any form of higher education. Today's challenges in education, especially related to ensuring access to higher education, reflect a significant issue facing families around the world. La Salle is delighted to host the International Mayors Forum, which aims to cultivate conversation around important topics such as this and we are proud to welcome these international leaders to our campus at 20^th Street and Olney Avenue."

For more information about the International Mayors Forum (#IMForum2015) and the World Meeting of Families - Philadelphia 2015, please visit www.WorldMeeting2015.org. 

For information regarding The Holy See's Pontifical Council for the Family, which co-sponsors the World Meeting of Families, visit here. 

You can also engage the World Meeting of Families - Philadelphia 2015 on Facebook (World Meeting of Families 2015) (Encuentro Mundial de las Familias - Filadelfia 2015), Twitter (@WMF2015) (@WMF2015ES) and Instagram (WMF2015).

About World Meetings of Families

Beginning with 1994, The Year of the Family, the Pontifical Council for the Family has been responsible for organizing the World Meetings of Families in Rome (1994); Rio de Janeiro (1997); Rome (2000); Manila (2003); Valencia (2006); Mexico City (2009); Milan (2012); and now, Philadelphia (2015). Since its inception by Saint John Paul II, the World Meeting of Families has sought to strengthen the sacred bonds of family across the globe.

About PwC US 

PwC US helps organizations and individuals create the value they're looking for. We're a member of the PwC network of firms, which has firms in 157 countries with more than 195,000 people. We're committed to delivering quality in assurance, tax and advisory services. Find out more and tell us what matters to you by visiting us at www.pwc.com/US.

2015 PwC. All rights reserved. PwC refers to the US member firm or one of its subsidiaries or affiliates, and may sometimes refer to the PwC network. Each member firm is a separate legal entity. Please see www.pwc.com/structure for further details.

About La Salle University

La Salle University was established in 1863 through the legacy of St. John Baptist de La Salle and the Christian Brothers teaching order, which St. La Salle founded in 1680. La Salle is an educational community shaped by traditional Catholic and Lasallian values. In a national survey, Money magazine ranked La Salle as a top five college in the Philadelphia region for educational quality, affordability, and alumni earnings, and cited the University as a "Value All-Star." Globally, the Lasallian educational network includes 1,000 schools (60 of which are institutions of higher education) serving 940,000 students in 80 countries.

Philly's Women Leaders Will Tell All

For Women Business Leaders,  by Women Business Leaders

Join the Philadelphia Business Journal for a lively conversation with dynamic women business owners and executives who will discuss how they have built their businesses and how they define success as a leader.  
You will hear their stories about how they lead and the lessons they have learned along the way.  

Find out their answers to: what does it take to communicate a compelling vision, build a great culture and respond to the opportunities, challenges and choices they face every day?

Where: Sheraton Center City, 17th and Vine, Philadelphia PA. Horizons Ballroom

When: Tuesday, September 22, 7:30 AM - 9:30 AM

Agenda:

           7:30-8:00 Registration, breakfast and networking

           8:00-8:30  Keynote

           8:30- 9:30 Panel and Audience Q & A

Keynote Speaker:

Ann Limberg, Head of Philanthropic Solutions and the Family Office U.S. Trust, Bank of America Private Wealth Management

Panelists: 

Catherine Cahill, President & CEO, Mann Center for the Performing Arts
Jane Golden, Founder & Executive Director, City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program
Maureen O'Connor, CEO, LEM Products
Dian Taylor, President & CEO, Artesian Water Co.
Judith von Seldeneck, Founder & CEO, Diversified Search

Register Now

Broadway For You And Your Dog: Enter Contest!

Producers of A.R. Gurney’s SYLVIA are thrilled to announce Sylvia’s Opening Night Sweepstakes. The grand prizewinner will receive an opening night package that includes:   Two opening night tickets and party passes to SYLVIA on Broadway. Overnight stay for two (plus canine friend) at the dog-friendly Loews Regency Hotel. Dinner and drinks for two at The Palm Restaurant. A one-year supply of Petsmile® Professional Pet Toothpaste. A custom-made dog bed from Sit. Stay. Forever. in their choice of color and material, sized perfectly to fit their canine companion. All Sit. Stay. Forever. products are made in America from 100% certified toxin free, hypoallergenic material. Ten additional winners will receive exclusive SYLVIA on Broadway merchandise. Starting Tuesday, September 1, 2015, contestants can enter Sylvia’s Opening Night Sweepstakes by visiting the show’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SylviaonBroadway/ or by visiting www.SylviaBroaday.com/sweepstakes/ and signing in with either their Facebook or Twitter account. For every action contestants take, they earn additional entries into the sweepstakes. The sweepstakes will remain opening until Saturday, October 10, 2015, and the winners will be announced on Thursday, October 15, 2015. For official sweepstakes rules and more information on how to enter visit www.SylviaBroadway.com/sweepstakes/. A.R. Gurney’s SYLVIA stars Tony Award-winner Matthew Broderick (Brighton Beach Memoirs, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying), Tony Award-winner Julie White (The Little Dog Laughed, Airline Highway), Drama Desk Award-winner Robert Sella (Stuff Happens), and Tony Award-winner Annaleigh Ashford (You Can’t Take It With You, Kinky Boots). They will appear under the direction of Tony Award-winner Daniel Sullivan (Proof). Performances will begin on Friday, October 2, 2015, and will hold its official opening night on Tuesday, October 27, 2015. Tickets for SYLVIA are available for purchase online at www.telecharge.com, by calling (212) 239-6200, or by going to the box office of the Cort Theatre. The creative team will include scenic design by Tony Award-nominee David Rockwell (You Can’t Take It With You, On the Twentieth Century), costume design by Academy Award-winner Ann Roth (The English Patient), lighting design by Tony Award-nominee Japhy Weideman (The Visit, Airline Highway), sound design by Peter Fitzgerald (Glengarry Glen Ross, Speed-the-Plow), and music by Greg Pliska (War Horse). Casting by Telsey + Company/William Cantler, CSA. ----- Sit. Stay Forever. creates products that are made in America from 100% certified toxin free, hypoallergenic material. The FDA strictly regulates the chemical properties of our own fabrics and beddings, we owe our pets the same. Sit. Stay. Forever. Is committed in doing everything possible to help work towards preventing feline and canine cancer and other disease by using only materials that have been tested for harmful chemicals and certified safe by the world’s largest independent third party testing organizations. All products are made in America from 100% certified toxin-free and hypoallergenic materials. www.SitStayForever.com  Petsmile Pet Toothpaste, invented by the makers of Supersmile®, is the gentle, safe way to clean your dog’s teeth, eliminating plaque and tartar for thorough oral care. Petsmile is the only dental care toothpaste for pets recommended by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). They found that with regular use of Petsmile, dogs had “significantly” less plaque, better oral health and fresher breath. That’s because Petsmile’s exclusive Calprox® formula is clinically proven to inhibit plaque formation for healthier teeth and gums. All without the need to brush. www.PetsmileUSA.com  The iconic Loews Regency New York Hotel reopened on January 16, 2014 following an extensive revitalization. The transformed property features 379 guest rooms including 58 suites; The Regency Bar & Grill, home of the “Power Breakfast” by Sant Ambroeus Hospitality Group; and the new flagship salon of the famed hairstylist Julien Farel, which incorporates a premier spa. Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan on Park Avenue, Loews Regency offers exceptional service and world-class amenities, optimal for conducting business or taking advantage of the city's best shopping, cultural experiences, and dining. For reservations or more information about Loews Regency, call 1-800-23-LOEWS or visit: www.LoewsHotels.com/Regency-Hotel/  The Palm Restaurant: While enjoying Dinner and libations before a grand night of theatre or closing a Million dollar deal our 89 year old reputation will continue to shine. Whether you’re having our signature, Prime NY Strip and Nova Scotia Lobster, Surf-n-Turf or our $26.00 3-course Power Lunch something is sure to appeal to every palette. Pair that with an award winning wine list and you are sure to have a memorable night in NYC. For groups of 1 to 200, from our bar to our 4 Private Dining Rooms, Palm West is the place to be! See you at The Palm! www.ThePalm.com/Palm-West  ### Website: http://www.sylviabroadway.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SylviaonBroadway  Twitter: https://twitter.com/sylviabroadway  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sylviabroadway

Tonight: Chaput To Lead Panel On Immigration

Philadelphia Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap. will be the keynote speaker at a panel discussion on issues affecting immigrants and their families. The event will be divided in two sessions: Caring for the Immigrant Families and Keeping Immigrants Families Together. Panelists will discuss Catholic teachings on immigration, the Church's pastoral work with immigrant families, and its advocacy efforts at a local and national level. 

Tuesday, September 1, 2015
6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Archdiocesan Pastoral Office Center (Auditorium)
222 North 17^th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103 

Session one will feature pastoral agents discussing Catholic social teaching on immigration, and detailing the vital work of Catholic institutions in caring and advocating for immigrant families, including those affected by detention and deportation. Session two will assess the legal framework for the United States immigration system and how immigration law and enforcement policies pose significant challenges to immigrant families. 

The immigration panel discussion is sponsored by The Archdiocese of Philadelphia, The World Meeting of Families, The Center for Migration Studies, Villanova University, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops/Migration and Refugee Services, and the Leadership Conference of Women Religious.