To commemorate the 9th anniversary of the passing of Blessed John Paul II, the New York Circle of Friends of the John Paul II Foundation organized a concert of religious and Lenten songs, titled “In Memory of Blessed John Paul II,” on Sunday, April 6. Talented Polish-American youth performed during the event.
The concert, held at the auditorium of the Polish-Slavic Center, was attended by over 150 friends and supporters of the John Paul II Foundation. This large turnout proves how important it is to honor anniversaries related to our fellow countryman, John Paul II. The beautiful performance featured a variety of religious and sacred songs as well as classical music. Together with the young performers, the audience sang our Holy Father’s favorite hymn – “Barka,” and ended the concert joyfully with the song “I Rely on You, Father…”
Performers who sang and played for the Holy Father – John Paul II – included: Iza Holy, Agnes Kalinowski, Katherine Kaminski, Tomek Kozakiewicz, Joanna Mieleszko, Klaudia Morelowska, Margaret Olko, Ela Raczkowska, Julia Raczkowska, Julia Skubisz, and Krystyna Wirkowska. The concert was hosted by Zofia Twarowska. The artistic director of this talented group was Teresa Rysztof. Technical support was generously provided by Tomasz Raczkowski. We thank these young artists for giving us unforgettable emotional moments. Our gratitude also goes to everyone who honored the event with their presence and to our generous donors.
This concert also served as spiritual preparation for the canonization of Blessed John Paul II, which will take place in Rome on April 27.