Mormons, Catholics unite in Mesa Temple Christmas program

MESA, Ariz. — Twelve years ago, the president of the Gilbert Arizona Stake thought that the Gilbert community would be benefited and community relationships strengthened if his stake and the local parish of the Catholic Church could interact and build a bridge of friendship using an interest common to both — music.

The first three years of this relationship saw each congregation prepare separate choral numbers and sing at the other's building. After shedding concerns and apprehensions, the choir directors for the parish and the stake combined their efforts to create a joint choir comprised of both faiths. They chose to prepare numbers to sing during the Christmas season to emphasize their common beliefs and values. One performance would be held at St. Anne's Catholic Church and the other at the Mesa Arizona Temple during the annual Christmas lights display.

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