PHILADELPHIA PA, Oct. 19 – Congressman Chaka Fattah (D-PA) issued this statement following the announcement that Archbishop John P. Foley, a native of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, will be elevated to Cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church on November 24, 2007:

“Archbishop John P. Foley, soon to become Cardinal Foley, is a man of God with countless friends and admirers throughout the Philadelphia region. The late Richard A. Doran, who served as advisor, mentor and most of all as friend to both Cardinal designate Foley and to me, would have been ecstatic – but not surprised – at the news. 

“The Catholic Church, which Cardinal-designate Foley has served so ably as a communicator of social policy, performs vital work in maintaining the health and welfare safety net for many of our citizens in need, regardless of the religion, race or nationality. I look forward to continuing to work with the Church and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia on these issues.

“I warmly congratulate Archbishop Foley upon his impending elevation to Cardinal, wish him well in his new responsibilities.”