The beginning of June marked the start of our Summer Concert Series, which runs until September at St. Anthony Shrine. As part of our 125th anniversary celebration, this series is a wonderful way to connect with our Friars, Sisters, staff, and attendees on beautiful summer evenings!

One concert is scheduled each month from June through September. The Westchester Chordsmen kicked off the series on June 5. More than 100 guests enjoyed a unique acapella experience in comfort, thanks to new benches made from recycled plastics positioned around the Shrine.

Founded in 1953 and based in Westchester, New York, the chorus has delighted audiences around the world with their barbershop singing. This performance featured some 30 men who performed hit songs including “Imagine,” “You’ve Got A Friend In Me,” and “Sweet Caroline,” which got the audience singing and swaying. It was a wonderful atmosphere of community for all ages!

Father Brian Terry, SA, noted upcoming events, such as the third annual Walk to Recovery on September 29 in Poughkeepsie, New York. The walk raises money and awareness for the life-changing and life-saving services provided by St. Christopher’s Inn (SCI).

Father Terry concluded his remarks with a reminder of the legacy of St. Christopher’s Inn (SCI). Though Father Paul Wattson, SA, and Mother Lurana White instituted the Inn over 100 years ago as a shelter for travelers, it continues to be a place of refuge for men, especially those struggling with addiction.

“Our evening with The Westchester Chordsmen is a perfect reminder of how we want the community to visit us and enjoy our Mountain and all it has to offer,”  said Father Terry. Thanks to the outdoor spaces, such as our picnic pavilion and soccer and baseball fields, connecting as a community at Graymoor is more enjoyable than ever.

The Summer Concert Series continues with another free performance by the Putnam Chorale on July 10 at 6:30 p.m. (EDT). Doors open at 6:00 p.m.