The following statement was released today by Joseph Zwilling, Director of Communications for the Archdiocese of New York, commenting on news reports concerning the upcoming visit of His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI. 

            "The clergy, religious, and laity of the Archdiocese of New York are delighted with the news that our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, will be addressing the United Nations here in New York this coming Spring.  We look forward to welcoming him and await details about his visit.  His Eminence, Edward Cardinal Egan, told the Holy Father in Rome last week that all of the People of God of the Archdiocese will be praying over the months that lie ahead that his Apostolic visit will be crowned with every grace and blessing."