Aurora church to host benefit band concert, pie fest July 27

The fourth annual benefit band concert and pie fest featuring 40 pie flavors will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday, July 27, at St. John United Church of Christ, 309 Fifth St. in Aurora.

The Rev. Cindy Gavin invites the community to the fundraiser. Freewill donations will be accepted to benefit church programs. Parking is free.

Rev. Gavin said the event will open with a concert by the Aurora Community Concert Band, featuring about 40 musicians led by Mauricio Palma.

According to the pastor, the band has practiced Tuesdays and Sundays at the church since 2015.

"This dedicated, determined and talented group of youth and college students choose difficult classical pieces and lively marches. They are dedicated artists on school summer breaks, sharpening their skills to become high school and college music teachers," Rev. Gavin said.

She added, "The after-concert pie fest is a reception featuring about 40 kinds of pies - both homemade and purchased. Stay after the concert for a piece of pie and meet the musicians."

Rev. Gavin said the band performs benefit concerts at the church in summer and December.

"Support these young people and this little but mighty, mission church," she said.

Founded in 1887 by German immigrants, St. John UCC traces its roots to the Lutheran and Evangelical and Reformed traditions. The church's outreach is both global and local with members living into their social justice values with commitment and care.

Call (630) 892-1932 or email office@uccaurora.com for more information.