Sights & Sounds: Navidad Latina fills cathedral with Spanish Christmas carols
The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, NJ, echoed with song on the evening of Dec. 11 during the 18th annual Navidad Latina.
Father Matthew Gonzalez, rector of the cathedral, warmly welcomed everyone to the special celebration. “This is always your home,” he told the assembly.
“As we prepare our hearts for the coming of the Lord, may this music fill you with joy, with hope, and with the warmth of our diverse cultures,” Father Gonzalez said. “Thank you for coming. May this evening draw us closer to one another and closer to Christ who comes to save us.”
Part of the Cathedral Choir Series, the holiday tradition featured the Archdiocesan Spanish and Children’s Choir, accompanied by guitars, flutes, saxophones, and a percussion section, under the direction Olfary Gutiérrez, with Chung A. Hong on piano and organ.
During the concert, a group of children created a Nativity scene on the altar as the choir performed traditional villancicos (Spanish Christmas carols) such as Como Tu Maria, La Anunciacion, and Noche de Paz.
To view more photos of the 18th annual Navidad Latina, click HERE.
You can watch a replay of the concert below:
Each week, Jersey Catholic features the rich and inspiring “Sights & Sounds” of the Archdiocese of Newark. Visit us regularly to explore our vibrant parishes, sacred artworks, historic landmarks, and the faithful men, women and youth who bring our Catholic community to life.
Featured image: The 18th annual Navidad Latina concert was held on Dec. 11 at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark. (Photo by Shania Mosquera)
