April 28, 2025

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Dear Friends,

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Beyond Choir humbly reaches out to you during this time of profound reflection and mourning. As the Catholic Church and the world remember the life and legacy of His Holiness, Pope Francis, we too feel called to offer our prayers and gratitude for a pontiff whose example of humility, compassion, and steadfast faith touched so many.

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For centuries, the Church has been the heart and home of sacred choral music — a tradition that has carried the prayers of the faithful, the beauty of Scripture, and the mysteries of the divine to countless generations. In this spirit, Beyond Choir will dedicate our upcoming performances of Duruflé’s Requiem to the memory of Pope Francis. Rooted in Gregorian chant and imbued with a profound sense of peace and hope, Duruflé’s setting is both timeless and deeply prayerful — a fitting tribute to a life devoted to Christ and His Church.

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We warmly invite your clergy, parishioners, and communities to join us for these special performances:

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• Friday, May 2, 2025 at 7:30 PM — EMU Pease Auditorium, Ypsilanti, MI
   

• Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 7:30 PM — The Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Detroit, MI

 

Information regarding ticketing and venues is available at www.beyondchoir.org. Options for free or reduced-price tickets are available for those who may need assistance.

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Through the beauty of sacred music, we hope to offer a space for prayer, reflection, and communal remembrance as we honor Pope Francis’s enduring spirit of love and service.

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May the peace of Christ, which surpasses all understanding, be with you.

 

In faith and solidarity,

Dr. Brandon Johnson, Artistic Director and Founder

Mr. Aaron D. Kempa, Executive Director

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