St. Francis Xavier Parish will present its second-annual Christmas concert on Saturday, December 3, at 7:30 PM.
The program will feature "The Winter Rose," composed by Joseph M. Martin and directed by music directior Ryan C. Neal.
The Winter Rose incorporates both traditional carols and newly composed anthems that portray the timeless Christmas story. Through soaring music, compelling narration and simple symbolism, the cantata presents the life of Christ from prophecy to passion. A full, 28-piece orchestra will accompany a chorus of some 50 singers from St. Francis Xavier Parish and neighboring churches.
The concert will be held inside St. Francis Xavier Church, 606 E. Washington St., Medina. It is the capstone of a two-day event celebrating the parish's 156th anniversary on its patronal feast day of St. Francis Xavier. On Friday, Dec. 2, the school children will celebrate Mass at 9:15 a.m. then offer prayers throughout the day during adoration before the Blessed Sacrament. Adoration will resume after 7 p.m. Mass that evening and continue through the night, concluding with benediction at 7 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, and 7:30 a.m. Mass.
Immediately following the 5 p.m. Mass on Dec. 3, Father Tony Sejba will bless and dedicate the new statue of St. Francis Xavier that adorns the entrance to our recently completed west vestibule.
The concert is free and open to the public.
