Benefit Concert for “Fr. Tom’s Kids”

hosted by St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church (SEAS)

What
We are planning a benefit concert to raise awareness and funds for the Dominican Friars’ Mission organization called “Fr. Tom’s Kids” in Kisumu (Western) Kenya. This is a free event – a “free-will offering” will be requested at the end of the concert.

Where
The concert will take place in the sanctuary of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church (SEAS) at 8500 Cross Mountain Trail, San Antonio, TX 78255. The church is roughly located on the north end of town half-way between UTSA and Boerne. From I 10 W, exit at Boerne Stage Rd. Turn left onto Boerne Stage Rd. Follow this to Cross Mountain Trail and turn left. The church is on the left.

When
The concert will take place on Saturday, April 14 at 7:30 p.m. This is the Saturday after Easter. The celebration of liturgy for the weekend is Divine Mercy Sunday.

Who
Members of the UTSA Department of Music faculty will perform in the concert. Performers will include Catherine Nix, soprano, John Nix, tenor, The UTSA Women’s Choir directed by Gary Mabry and accompanied by Christine Debus, piano. Other performers include Melody Rich, soprano and Kassandra Keeling, piano. Much help is needed within the parish for a successful concert. All performers will donate their time and talents.

Why
“Fr. Tom’s Kids” is a program of the Dominican Friars of East Africa. The “Fr. Tom’s Kids” project pairs sponsors with orphans and needy students. Sponsored students are provided one year of school fees, boarding, school supplies, basic medical care, uniforms and books. In addition to education, this program is also committed to the character formation of their students. The motto of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans) is TRUTH. Most of Fr. Tom’s Kids are orphans whose families are victims of HIV/AIDS. Their families are dilapidated & unable to take care or educate them.

This organization stresses that education is the foundation for creating a more just society.  Educated people are empowered to work for peace and justice against the current corruption in their part of the world. Education builds informed leaders and enables those to raise their families out of the poverty cycle.

How
John and Cathy Nix, under the support of the Social Justice Committee of SEAS, will coordinate this event. Staff and volunteers of the parish are asked to help by educating our parish and by bringing members of our community to this concert. It is our hope that little to no money be spent in preparing this concert so that all funds collected will go to the cause. Help is needed in these areas: Programs/flyers printing and distribution; Community Promotion and Awareness; Reception Coordination.

We are looking for in-kind donations of:
      Cost of the printing
      Pastries/whatever for reception
      Spotlight for church
      Moving expense to bring piano up to altar space

Summary
Fr. Tom’s Kids is a legitimate, worthwhile organization which is changing lives for the better. As we seek to remain in solidarity with our brothers and sisters around the world, we are striving to make a difference in the quality of their lives. We have been so blessed. Let us make every effort to actively live our call to faith.