Washington D.C., Apr 27, 2004 / 22:00 pm
The first ever National Catholic Prayer Breakfast held this morning is “evidence that the Church is alive and well in America,” said Joseph Cella, president of the event. The event drew more than 1,000 Catholics from across the United States.
"The overwhelming response has confirmed our belief that this prayer breakfast is meeting a great spiritual need within our country at this time," said Cella. "We hope this event will help to inspire Catholics to be guided by their faith in every aspect of their lives, both public and private."
The event, held at the Renaissance Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C., began with the rosary at 7 a.m., followed by a mass and breakfast.
HHS Secretary Tommy Thompson represented President George W. Bush, and Cardinal Avery Dulles addressed the role of Catholicism in public service.
The purpose of the event, said Cella, “is to thank God for the blessings he has bestowed upon America and the Church.”