Wimbledon schools unite in concert for Holy Land Christians

Musicians from two Catholic schools in Wimbledon are to join together for a concert which promises to raise the roof in aid of Christians in the Holy Land.  
The concert, being held at Sacred Heart Church on Thursday 1st October, will support Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN)’s work in the Holy Land – Jerusalem, Bethlehem and other communities suffering at a time of increased tension and strife.

The idea for the event emerged after members of the local Catholic community learned of the challenges in Taybeh – the Holy Land’s last remaining entirely Christian village – and sought a way to support them.

The concert will feature choirs, orchestras and talented solo musicians from both schools, with a varied programme of choral and instrumental performances.
Taybeh has endured violence as well as increasing restrictions affecting daily life in the town.
 

ACN is one of the main contributors of aid programmes organised by the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem – the Roman Catholic diocese covering the Holy Land – including schooling, job creation schemes, food coupons for struggling families, Christian formation, such as the training of seminarians and spiritual outreach to families on the margins of society.

James Potter, chaplain of Wimbledon College, said: “As a Jesuit school, we talk a lot about being ‘Men and Women for Others’, and we aspire to let Catholic Social Teaching guide our decisions.

“When we first heard the idea of a solidarity concert for the Christians of Taybeh, it was clear that this was something we needed to throw all our support behind.”

Guests attending the concert will have the opportunity to buy olivewood products crafted by Christians families in and around Bethlehem, all in aid of ACN’s work in the Holy Land.

Just back from the Holy Land, John Pontifex, ACN (UK)’s head of press and public affairs, who will be speaking at the event, said: “Having spent time with families, young and old, priests, bishops, seminarians and Sisters in so many parts of the region, I can testify to the impact being made by the incredible supporters of ACN.

“All those involved in the concert – musicians and attendees alike – can be assured that this evening will be a truly special time and one that promises to make huge difference in the lives of those who are suffering so much these days.”