Auxiliary Bishop John J. McIntyre is set to lead the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s Annual Cultural Heritage Mass as the principal celebrant and homilist. The event will take place at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Philadelphia on Saturday, March 22, 2025. The procession will begin at 2:00 p.m., followed by the Mass at 2:30 p.m.

The Mass aims to celebrate the cultural diversity within the Catholic community across the five-county Archdiocese. This community includes individuals with roots in Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, Brazil, the Caribbean, and various Native American communities. The theme aligns with Pope Francis's call for “Celebrating the Jubilee Year of Hope” for the 2025 Jubilee.

Representatives from around 28 different national and ethnic backgrounds are expected to participate in this liturgical celebration. Scripture readings and prayers will be delivered in eight languages: Ghanaian, Konkani, Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, Twi, Portuguese, and Swahili. In total, about 20 languages will be spoken or sung during the Mass. Choirs from nine parishes will contribute multilingual music.

Participants wearing traditional attire will join an opening procession behind banners representing their countries of origin. The event is open to all attendees.

The Office for Pastoral Care for Migrants and Refugees organizes this annual event with support from the Pontifical Mission Societies and the Office of Cultural Ministries. This office includes divisions such as the Office for Black Catholics, Office for Hispanic Catholics, and Office for Pastoral Care of Migrants and Refugees.

For those unable to attend in person, a live stream will be available via Vimeo at https://vimeo.com/event/2470138 as well as on Facebook pages ArchbishopPerez, ArchPhila, and pcmrphilly.

Sister Gertrude Borres can provide more information about this event; she serves as director of the Office for Pastoral Care for Migrants and Refugees and can be reached at 215-587-3540.