The historic San Andrés Church in Ajijic will be the setting for the second international musical celebration of Vespers on Thursday, February 11, 4:30 p.m.
As at a similar event hosted by the English Mass Community of San Andrés in February last year, donations of canned goods and money will be accepted at the doors to benefit the Villa Infantil Orphanage on the south shore of Lake Chapala, near Jocotepec.
Vocalists Patteye Simpson and Juan Navaro, both Ajijic residents, will again join organist Neal Biggers in a varied program ranging from classical organ works to popular inspirational songs and traditional hymns. New this year will be trumpeter Norma Province of Jocotepec and handbell ringers Daisy Posadas and Glorina Thomas from Kentucky, as well as the cloistered Benedictine nuns of the Monastery of the Most Blessed Sacrament in San Antonio Tlayacapan. Composers of the music selections include Bach, Handel, Mendelssohn, Schubert, Gigout, Mexican composer José Jesús Estrada, and others.
The international flavor of the music is reflected in the background and experience of the musicians for the service. Simpson has sung in Europe and throughout the United States, and is an acclaimed performer and director in musical theater here in Jalisco. Province has played trumpet in orchestras and dance bands around the United States and is a member of the Ajijic Symphony. Biggers has played organs and accompanied touring choirs and soloists in several European countries, and has led music for churches in various U.S. states. Norb Michel of Ajijic (originally from St. Louis, Missouri) is a cantor for the English Mass Community. Juan Navarro is a gifted singer, artist and teacher in the Lake Chapala and Guadalajara areas. Daisy Posadas began her musical training in the Philippines and has specialized in directing and playing in handbell ensembles.
Spoken parts of the service will be lead by Fr. Basil G. Royston, a South African and chaplain to the English Mass Community at San Andrés, Deacon Bill Shaidnagle of San Andrés, and Fr. Larry McBride, pastor of Holy Name Church in Henderson, Kentucky.
The English Mass Community of San Andrés Church has been a long-time benefactor and supporter of Villa Infantil and the Sisters of Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. Joseph who care for the children. The orphanage, Villa Infantil Guadalupe y San Jose, is a nonprofit organization that provides a home to abused, abandoned or orphaned children. It is run by this small group of religious sisters with assistance of local and expat volunteers and benefactors. There are around 30 children living at the Villa ranging in ages from one year to 18 years. More information is available at www.villainfantil.com.mx or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..