Iconic music trio Sister Sledge have been invited to perform for Pope Francis at this year's World Meeting of Families event in Philadelphia, taking place on September 26 and inviting families from around the world to converge for a series of special prayer-led activities and thought-provoking debate.
Sister Sledge Live - Andrew Baker Newham's Under the Stars 2014
Held every three years, the theme this time round is 'Love Is Our Mission: The Family Fully Alive', which should resonate perfectly with the group's defining message: 'Nothing Is Greater Than Love', a belief they've stood by for the entirety of their career.
Famed worldwide for their classic hits such as 'We Are Family' and 'Lost in Music', the group will perform a special rendition of 'We Are Family' during the visit - a song which has had over one billion digital downloads since its release.
The group said in a statement: "We are truly honoured to have been asked to perform for His Holiness Pope Francis. The World Meeting of Families is such a special and unique event, which will bring together families from all over the world in a bond of unity, love and solidarity. We were thrilled to learn that His Holiness chose our hometown, Philadelphia, to show the entire world the significance of Family, Faith and Love. We firmly stand for and believe in the ideals that Pope Francis will be speaking about, particularly the vital importance of the family, human rights and equality for all."
They added: "Our group's legacy of love stems from the expression of sisterhood so triumphantly voiced in one of our most famous songs "We Are Family". This message is now as important and fresh as ever. Through life experience we have come to realize that we are 'all' family. Together we must stand in unity as sisters and brothers for the betterment of humankind. Every woman, man and child has the right to receive love.
"We look forward to joining with others on the 26th September in celebrating the gifts of life, faith and love to mark the beloved Pope Francis' visit to the USA. We will unite and rejoice with families the world over."
Further performers include host Mark Wahlberg, Aretha Franklin, The Fray, The Philadelphia Orchestra, Jim Gaffigan, Andrea Bocelli, Juanes, Marie Miller and Matt Maher.
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