As you read in my last post, Winchester was blessed with a very special visit yesterday. Les Petits Chaunters, the boys choir from Ecole de Musique Sainte Trinité the school I worked with all year, made a stop last night to perform at Christ Episcopal Church. I have to admit that this was probably one of the most special moments I've had in my ministry. It was so amazing, and rare, to have the people that I served in Haiti be able to visit my home parish and meet the people who have been supporting me all year long.
The choir and chamber orchestra came into town yesterday afternoon. I was surprised at how early they came in, but delighted to come running into our parish hall to find all of my friends from Haiti! I was greeted with loud cheers and lots of hugs. I cannot tell you how exciting it was to have everyone there.
After a little tour of our downtown walking mall and rehearsals, we all joined together for a Haitian inspired dinner. During the dinner, myself and a few of the boys from the choir were interviewed by our local TV station. You can watch the clip by following this link: Les Petits Chanteurs. (Click on the video called "Les Petits Chanteurs")
The concert, which filled up with people from our parish and the community, was spectacular! I was touched that my request was honored and the choir sang my favorite song called Tap Tap. And as I expected, no concert with Haitian music is complete unless it involves a little dancing!
The evening ended with combined choir and chamber orchestra pieces. Everyone loved the concert and enjoyed visiting with the musicians after the concert at the reception.
After the evening ended, the musicians headed home with host families from Christ Church. All I heard this morning as families dropped their guests back off at the church was how much fun they had with them. I loved being able to watch my two families become one larger family. It was a truly beautiful evening and I can't thank God enough for making it possible.