The Concert Artists of Baltimore, the Peabody Children’s Chorus and the Archbishop Curley High School Ringers Handbell Choir will be the featured performers at a Dec. 15 Christmas concert at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore.
Sponsored by Catholic Charities, the 7:30 p.m. event will benefit the programs and services of Catholic Charities’ senior housing communities for low-income seniors.
“It a wonderful time of the year when we come together and we celebrate the spirit of the season – as well as being really focused on those we serve,” said William McCarthy Jr., executive director of Catholic Charities.
A wine, cheese and dessert reception following the concert will be held at Basilica Place, Catholic Charities’ first senior housing community.
Basilica Place is celebrating its 30th anniversary. From that first facility, Catholic Charities’ senior housing services has grown to include 22 communities with 1,650 residents. Catholic Charities, McCarthy said, is now the largest private developer and manager of supportive senior housing in Maryland.
“We have 3,400 people on a waiting list,” McCarthy said, noting that the average age of those in senior housing is 76 and the average annual income is about $12,000. “It’s safe, secure, affordable housing for people who would otherwise not be able to afford a place to live.”
This year’s concert is chaired by Dan and Melissa Cahill. Concert Artists of Baltimore is under the artistic direction of Edward Polochick. Doreen Falby directs the Peabody Children’s Chorus and Michael Gaffney is the choirmaster of the Curley Ringers.
Tickets are $100 and $125 and may be ordered at cc-md.org/christmasfestival or by calling 443-798-3417. All tickets include free parking and the reception.