The West Point Cadet Catholic Choir will perform in Avalon at Maris Stella Church, Sept. 20-21.
The choir is a fellowship where any cadet can celebrate musical liturgy, learn something about music and Catholic musical tradition, enjoy the company of friends, and serve as an ambassador for the Most Holy Trinity Parish at West Point to other parishes.
Guided by Meredith Baker, a classically trained and outstanding musical director, the choir supports weekly mass at West Point and engages in many social, teambuilding, and service events.
Four annual weekend trips to share the liturgy with other parishes and stay with families in their homes are highlights of spiritual development for the year.
Relationships with host parishes extending over 25 years are testimony to the joy and mutual good will inspired by this program.
The Choir participates in special service events. Past support includes the Papal Mass offered in Central Park by Pope John Paul II, annual Chrism Mass in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, New York City, and concert performance of Mahler’s 8th Symphony at Carnegie Hall.
Saturday Mass is 5:30 p.m.; Sunday, the choir sings their Prelude, and about four songs prior to the start of 9 a.m. Mass. Everyone is encouraged to arrive about 15 minutes early.
The final Sunday Mass is 11 a.m.
This is the choir’s 26th Annual Visit to Maris Stella.
“This is a great record of support from a wonderful parish,” said Baker. “The cadets look forward to seeing their host families (parish members) each year, and many keep in touch well after graduation. Others are often invited back as guests to spend time with the families during some of the leave time the cadets accumulate.”
