Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is preparing to host its 69th annual Archbishop’s Benefit for Children Christmas Party. The event, themed “The Archbishop’s Christmas Jam,” will welcome nearly 500 children and youth from the Greater Philadelphia Area.

The festivities will begin with a live Nativity scene on the steps of the Archdiocesan Pastoral Center (APC), featuring student performers from Saint Cecilia School and animals traditionally associated with the Nativity. This initial segment will be followed by a musical prelude performed by The Good Shepherd Singers, a group comprising staff, residents, and alumni of Saint John’s Hospice. Saint John’s Hospice provides services to individuals transitioning from homelessness, offering residences, meal services, mailroom services, as well as case management and healthcare services.

The event is scheduled for Wednesday, December 18, 2024. Activities at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Center will start at 12:30 p.m., located at 222 North 17th Street in Philadelphia. Following this portion of the celebration, attendees will move to the Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown Hotel across the street.

Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez will greet arriving children and participate in the day's activities. Reverend Christopher M. Walsh from Saint Cecilia Parish is set to emcee while Mr. Steve Volkert will handle DJ duties.

From 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., children can enjoy performances, sing-a-longs, snacks, and more at the Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown Hotel located on 17th Street between Race and Vine Streets in Philadelphia. A surprise visit from Santa Claus is planned where he will distribute gifts to all present with help from student volunteers from various Catholic High Schools throughout the region.

The timeline for this event includes:

- At 12:30 p.m., students from Saint Cecilia School perform a live Nativity.

- At 1:00 p.m., The Good Shepherd Singers present their musical prelude.

- By 1:45 p.m., Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez arrives at APC.

- At 2:00 p.m., he greets children at Sheraton Hotel.

- From 2:15 p.m. to 2:45 p.m., live musical performances occur.

- At approximately 2:45 p.m., Santa makes his entrance.

- Gift distribution begins around 2:50 p.m.

- The event concludes by 3:00 p.m.

According to organizers, "the Archbishop’s Benefit for Children (ABC) is a year-round fundraising effort that provides necessary support" ensuring vitality for Catholic Social Services youth programs which serve thousands annually across different backgrounds and faiths in Greater Philadelphia.

For further details or donations supporting ABC's initiatives for children in need throughout the region can be made through their website.