Two Christian religions came together in December to present a Christmas concert and to collect food for the local pantry.
The interfaith Christmas benefit concert was held at the Immaculate Conception Church in Annandale, New Jersey. The event’s co-host was the Clinton congregation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
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“We come together with our common connection being Christ,” said Catholic Monsignor Randall J. Vashon. “We come together in prayerful thanksgiving and music. Indeed, it is a benefit for us all to celebrate that which we have in common.”
The program featured combined church choirs, soloists, a combined children’s choir, instrumentals and narrations read from the New Testament. A highlight was the choir’s performance of the “Hallelujah Chorus” from Handel's Messiah. The Hunterdon Harmonizers, a community men’s a cappella group, complemented the good cheer of this very special program.
Performer David Bean said, “I felt a wonderful spirit of friendship and united purpose as we lifted our voices to worship the Lord Jesus Christ and commemorate His birth and mission.”
More than 400 people attended the concert. Many brought donations in an effort to help meet the rising needs of the Open Cupboard Food Pantry of Clinton. Rose Hanley, pantry manager, attended the event and expressed gratitude when receiving a delivery the following morning of 1,102 pounds of donated food and household items.
“The two faith groups worked tirelessly to bring this gift of uplifting music to the community as well as provide an opportunity to give to those in need among us,” according to concert organizer Robyn Smith.