When Joseph Swift issued an invitation to Johnston High School’s Treble Choir to participate in Highland Memorial Park Cemetery’s long-standing holiday tradition, director Matthew Gringras felt honored and assured Swift they would be there.
So there were Gingras, who has a brief yet impressive history of developing talented vocalists since his arrival on Cherry Hill, and 17 undergrads taking center stage inside Highland Memorial Park’s Chapel Mausoleum Sunday night for the 19th annual Christmas Remembrance Service.
“We are happy to be here and lend our support to a wonderful evening,” Gingras said prior to the Treble Choir’s appearance. “I feel blessed to have so many students come out on a Sunday and participate in this long-standing tradition.”
For members of the Treble Choir – and many people of all ages – Sunday’s service was a non-denominational event that Swift said “offers an opportunity for families throughout Rhode Island to join in the holiday spirit of giving and paying respect to the memory of their deceased loved ones, no matter where they are laid to rest.”
As families are encouraged to bring one unwrapped toy, there was an impressive collection of goodies in the middle of the crowded Chapel Mausoleum.
The Rev. Albert D. Ranallo of St. Ann’s Church delivered “The Meaning of Christmas” to a gathering of nearly 200 people. Yet another visible highlight was pewter ornaments, which families began bringing to Highland Memorial Park last week and were hung by the cemetery staff throughout the spacious cemetery.
Gingras and his choir sang a well-received selection of classics, some of which featured attendees joining in. The event’s most emotional moment, as some people suggested while walking out of the Chapel Mausoleum, was when the Treble Choir began singing “Silent Night” as three Christmas trees trimmed with stars were lit.
It’s no wonder that Gingras thanked Swift “for thinking of us” and offered, “We look forward to participating in this terrific tradition in the years to come.”
The members of the Treble Choir, who like many of the night’s attendees enjoyed refreshments supplied by Highland Memorial Park Cemetery after the service, are Isabella Ribezzo, Alicia McCoy, Salma Hedili, Emily Juarez, Kelly Dargy, Maya Ferreira, Serenity Alard, Mackenzie Hanna, Destinee Costa, Samantha Gobielle, Caitlyn Zinni, Nisa Prasith, Madison Kenny, Sophie Ribezzo, Greyson Costa, Sarah Alverez-Barber and Alexia Jankura.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here