Each year the Vatican Christmas Concert brings the biggest names in music to Rome to celebrate the Birth of Christ with song and dance.
This year's concert will also feature the winners of the 2021 Christmas Contest, which invites young artists from around the world to submit original Christmas music for a chance to perform at the Vatican and runs through the end of July.
MSGR. GUYS-RÉAL THIVIERGE
General Secretary, Gravissimum Educationis Foundation
“The Christmas Contest was formed from an invitation from the Holy Father. He has invited us on several occasions, especially in the context of the Global Compact for Education, to listen to the voices of young people.”
The contest is organized by the Gravissimum Educationis Foundation, a Vatican foundation created by Pope Francis in 2015 to promote integral education around the world. It seeks to develop the minds and souls of young people everywhere.
NICOLA TOMASONI
Gravissimum Educationis Foundation
“Art is a way for young people to express what they do not know how to say in other ways, and to touch particular notes and emotions of the heart. We know how important this is in education.”
This year's concert will benefit vocational training and education initiatives in the Democratic Republic of the Congo organized by Don Bosco Missions and the Gravissimum Educationis Foundation.
NICOLA TOMASONI
Gravissimum Educationis Foundation
“Two projects are joined in solidarity with the contest, both working in the Congo. It is a huge country with vast resources, but it is not often talked about. That's why our foundation is working together with Don Bosco missions to support two different but complementary projects in the country.”
The Christmas Contest seeks to use the power of music to engage young people in worship and praise for one of the Church's most important celebrations.
JM
