Pope Benedict XVI to visit Notre Dame on 18th July 2008

The University of Notre Dame Australia is honoured to announce that His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI will visit the University’s Darlinghurst Campus, Sydney on 18 July. The Holy Father has requested to meet young people at risk of alcohol and substance abuse, homelessness and other forms of disadvantage. The University is privileged to host this occasion. Pope Benedict XVI will arrive at the University’s Darlinghurst premises at 7 pm on 18 July, 2008. He will enter Sacred Heart Church in the University precincts and meet young people together with representatives of Notre Dame, Centacare, the Catholic Education Office and other organisations working with local youth. Several of the young people have been selected to give testimony before the Pope. There will also be an Address from His Holiness and an opportunity for prayer. Before leaving, Pope Benedict XVI will greet personally a number of young people and their families. The incoming Vice Chancellor of Notre Dame, Professor Celia Hammond, commented “There is clearly no greater honour for a Catholic University than a visit from the Holy Father. We are privileged to host both him and the young people chosen to meet him on this great day for Notre Dame. Pope Benedict XVI will be warmly welcomed among us and we greatly look forward to his visit.” The visit to Notre Dame will be the only visit Pope Benedict XVI undertakes outside the WYD2008 schedule and his meetings with religious and civic dignitaries. Media contact: Hayden Ramsay, (02) 8204 4390, 0439 416 46