Posted December 23, 2023

Catholic Social Services hosted its 68th annual Archbishop’s Benefit for Children Christmas Party Dec. 20 for more than 500 children and youth. These children represent thousands of young people across the Greater Philadelphia region who benefit annually from community-based and residential programs offered by the agency. The Riley Family Foundation, a CSS benefactor, sponsored the 2023 Christmas party.

Children enjoyed a festive afternoon alongside Archbishop Pérez filled with a live Nativity scene, student performances, sing-a-longs, snacks, a visit from Santa, and more. Student volunteers from Archdiocesan and private Catholic High Schools served as Santa’s helpers. This year’s theme was “The Archbishop’s Christmas Sneaker Ball.” (Photos by Sarah Webb)

  • Children enjoy a live Nativity scene.

  • Children enjoy a live Nativity scene.

  • Archbishop Pérez and members of the Riley family pose for a picture. The Riley Family Foundation is a benefactor to Catholic Social Services and sponsored the 2023 Christmas Party.

  • Archbishop Pérez and members of the Riley family.

  • Fr. Chris Walsh and Fr. Philip Bochanski show off their matching sneakers during the “Sneaker Ball”

  • Children show off their sneakers during the “Sneaker Ball”

  • Party attendees dance on the dance floor.

  • Children enjoy a balloon drop during the annual Christmas party.

  • Santa, Archbishop Pérez, and members of the Riley family pose for a picture with young children attending the party. The Riley Family Foundation is a benefactor to Catholic Social Services and sponsored the 2023 Christmas Party.

  • Archbishop Pérez and students from St. Hubert Catholic High School for Girls.

  • Archbishop Pérez and a student volunteer from St. Hubert Catholic High School for Girls.

  • The Good Shepherd Singers perform Christmas favorites.

  • Children enjoy a live Nativity scene.

  • Kamal Bostic-Smith sings Christmas favorites.