Church Makes a Joyful Noise with Christmas Carol Spectacular

Forget about it being a school night and come out Sunday night to hear a renowned group of musicians fill with beautiful sounds of the holiday. "A Christmas Carol Spectacular" will feature La Carmata Nuove Christmas Chorale, conducted by Francisco de Araujo, with an orchestra and soloists. 

This will be the second Christmas Concert with Maestro Francisco and his chorale at the church. According to Norma Najjar of the church’s Cultural Committee, more than 475 people attended last year, a full house. She estimates that about half of those were church members and half others from the community.

“This is only the second time but we hope to do it annually, to make it a family tradition,” said Najjar. “People were very moved; some left that night with tears in their eyes.” 

Also as part of its community outreach mission, the committee put on a program in May 2011, with the Washington National Cathedral Choir and Orchestra presenting a Sacred Music Concert including John Tavener’s “Lament for Jerusalem” as well as some Mozart. That was part of a whole week celebrating the 50th anniversary of the church’s Father George Rados being in the priesthood. Also this autumn, the church hosted a choir from Russia touring the U.S.  

Francisco de Araujo will conduct La Carmata Nuove Christmas Chorale at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 11, at , 10620 River Rd., Potomac. Ticket donation $25. Call the church office to reserve tickets, 301-765-3400 ext. 0.