St. James A.M.E. society holds Little Angels benefit Saturday

The St. James A.M.E. Church Lydia Missionary Society presents the Little Angels Christmas musical benefit at 2 p.m. Saturday at St. James A.M.E. Church, 1100 Summit St., Elgin.

The Lydia Missionary Society, whose purpose is to help people grow in the knowledge and experience of God through Christian training and mission work, is coordinating the second annual musical benefit.

All proceeds from this concert will go to assist and help Little Angels, a home for children and young adults with severe handicaps and complex medical needs. Located on the east side of Elgin, it has been assisting area families by loving and caring for their children with severe handicaps since 1958.

St. James A.M.E. Church has had a charitable and friendly relationship with Little Angels for a number of years. What started as a working relationship, when Little Angels rented space from the church, has grown into a supportive and loyal friendship.

Little Angels, which is home to 57 children and young adults, is funded primarily through public aid. With public-aid rates at a virtual standstill for more than 13 years, Little Angels is facing serious financial difficulties -- and St. James, through the community, wants to help.

This musical event will feature youth and adult choirs, ensembles and dance troupes performing a mix of inspirational, spiritual and Christmas music.

The benefit is open to the public. A free-will offering will be taken. If you are unable to attend but would like to make a contribution, make your check payable to "Little Angels" and send to St. James A.M.E. Church, 1100 Summit St., Elgin, IL 60120. All proceeds from this benefit go to Little Angels.

For information on the benefit, call Jaynita Wise, (847) 695-0484 or Billie Barnett, (847) 431-5718. To learn more about Little Angels visit www.littleangels.org or call (847) 741-1609, ext. 101.