Concert for Hope

Concert for Hope, a benefit in support of aiding refugees worldwide, will be held at St. Matthew United Church of Christ (UCC) on Sunday, May 21, 2017 at 4pm. Four friends, who are also musicians, are using their talents to raise both funds and awareness of the current refugee crisis.

"Promises of Hope," composed by Brian Dobbelaere for piano and violin will premiere at the concert. This work was inspired by the plight of refugees today. Other selections include works by American composers Amy Beach and George Gershwin, Czech composer Antonin Dvořák, and Armenian composer Alexander Arutiunian. Guest musicians Andrea Bartolomeo, piano; Maria Storm, violin; and Paul Semanic, trumpet, along with St. Matthew musician Brian Dobbelaere with participant in the concert.

A free-will offering will be taken in support of the UCC International Emergency Relief Fund. UCC Disaster Ministries works with partners in over 140 countries to respond to natural and human caused disasters. Some of UCC partners are ACT Alliance, Church World Service and National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD). Many faith communities also support these international organizations. In 2017 alone, these relief organizations have responded to disasters including flooding, extreme cold, earthquakes, hurricanes and wildfires. Through this work thousands of disaster survivors receive dignified support and relief annually.

Checks may be made payable to the International Emergency Relief Fund and send to St. Matthew UCC Mission Concert, 1420 S Gables Blvd., Wheaton, IL 60189. Donations may also be made online at http://www.stmatthewucc.org.