Interfaith Choir of Peru Unites Hearts

The best feelings of the Christmas season created a symphony of hope and faith at the Christmas concert of the Interfaith Choir of Peru, organized by the Interreligious Council of Peru–Religions for Peace. This event was also part of the Light the World activities organized by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This event, held on Thursday, December 14, 2023, took place at a local meetinghouse for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is becoming one of the most noteworthy events during the Christmas season in Lima.

Laura Vargas, executive secretary of the Interreligious Council of Peru, Archbishop Salvador Piñeiro, president of the Interreligious Council, and Elder Jorge Zeballos, an Area President for the Church of Jesus Christ, extended warm welcomes, highlighting the power of music to unite hearts amid the diversity of beliefs.

The Interfaith Choir sang Christmas chorales from Handel’s “Messiah.” Nearly 80 voices joined together, sharing music that resonated with the Christmas spirit and the essence of interreligious collaboration.

The stage was illuminated by the musical artistry of Jaime Bazán on the piano and the voices of soprano Lola Márquez and tenor Moshe Bautista. These talented artists, along with the choir, took attendees on a melodic journey through the grandeur of “Messiah,” capturing the essence of the festive season.

The meetinghouse transformed into a crossroads of faith and culture where attendees representing diverse religious communities came together in celebration. The event reflected the beauty of religious diversity and music’s ability to transcend barriers, connecting hearts through the spirit of Christmas.

Monsignor Piñeiro, archbishop of Ayacucho, said, “We have seen how the art of music, especially the language of faith, brings together these believing communities so that the Lord may bless us and bring days of peace, reconciliation and solidarity with the Christmas festivities. Greetings to the community of the Church of Jesus Christ, who always welcomes us with such affection in their facilities. I was in Utah in October and could appreciate the depth of their studies and social welfare programs. To all, my gratitude and blessing.”

Juan Rustom of the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, added, “I want to thank the members of the Church for their integrity and for providing such lovely hospitality and warmth. When we come here, we come to our home.”

The Interreligious Council of Peru–Religions for Peace brings together religious leaders from local faiths, including the Catholic Church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Methodist Church, the Anglican Church, the Evangelical Presbyterian and Reformed Church of Peru, the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch, the Interfaith Network of Women of Faith, the Jewish Association of Peru, the Islamic Association of Peru, the Sōtō Zen Buddhist community, Brahma Kumaris and the Bahá’í community of Peru, among others.