Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart Celebrates 17th Annual Navidad Latina
The Cathedral Concert Series brought the joy of Spanish Christmas carols to life during the annual Navidad Latina at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, NJ, on Dec. 5.
Father Bismarck Chau warmly welcomed attendees with a message of reflection and inspiration.
“Usually, we focus on the beauty the choir brings. But, tonight, focus instead on what the Spirit can give you,” said Father Chau. “Through the lyrics of the music, perhaps it will bring back memories of your childhood, or youth. Tonight will truly be a night of inspiration for transformation inner hearts this Christmas. May God bless you, and may you enjoy this evening.
The evening featured beloved villancicos—Spanish Christmas carols—including Como Tú María, La Anunciación, Noche de Paz, and Los Peces en el Río. As these songs filled the air, children dressed as Mary, Joseph, the Three Wise Men, and angels processed down the aisles to form a Nativity scene, bringing the Christmas story to life.
Olfary Gutierrez, director of the Cathedral Spanish Choir, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the audience.
“Thank you so much for joining us tonight as we come together to prepare our hearts and minds for the arrival of our Emmanuel, God with us. This year marks our 17th anniversary of Navidad Latina, and for almost two decades, we have created a space where faith, culture, and music thrive. We are so grateful for the impact this tradition continues to have.”
The concert showcased the talents of the Archdiocesan Spanish and Children’s Choir, a group of approximately 60 singers spanning sopranos, altos, tenors, and baritones. Their harmonious voices were complemented by an ensemble of instruments, including guitars, flutes, bass, saxophone, and percussion, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Gutierrez also highlighted a special milestone: Chung A. Hong, the Cathedral’s Korean Associate Organist, played the organ—featuring nearly 10,000 pipes—for the first time in the concert’s history, adding a new dimension to this cherished tradition.
The Navidad Latina celebration continues to serve as a vibrant testament to the intersection of faith, culture, and the universal language of music, uniting the community in anticipation of the Christmas season.
For more information about the 2024-2025 concert schedule at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, please visit their “Concert Series” page.
