WESTFIELD – The Oncology Department at Westfield’s Noble Hospital is hoping to receive a big boost this holiday season, as Springfield’s St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral is holding their 29th Annual Christmas Concert to raise funds for the hospital’s cancer facilities.
The concert will be held on Sunday at 3:30 p.m. at the cathedral, which is located at 22 St. George Road, Memorial Square in Springfield.
Set to perform are Westfield State University’s Grand Chorale and Wind Symphony, St. George Cathedral’s Grand Chorale and the Longmeadow High School Lyrics.
Tickets for the event are $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12. A reception with Greek pastries will be provided following the concert.
St. George Cathedral’s Rev. Christopher Stamas, said yesterday that he is excited for the upcoming concert and believes it will surpass last year’s fundraising total of roughly $5,000.
“It’s a wonderful event and we’re expecting it to be the biggest one yet this year,” said Stamas. “Since 1985, this concert has always been dedicated to helping cancer research, treatment, assisting people who have cancer and making their experience more pleasant.”
Stamas has been in Springfield for 13 years and said that this event has been a crucial part of his parish’s Christmas season.
“One of our parishoners, Peter Demos, was a professor of Music over there (Westfield State University) and in 1985, he got this ball rolling on the Westfield State side,” said Stamas, who stated that several St. George parishoners have received cancer treatment at Noble over the years.
“Noble Hospital’s Oncology Department has made a huge impression on them,” said Stamas of the parishoners. “The team over there has been tremendous, not only for those people, but for supporting the family. Even with this concert, (Noble) has been right by our side the whole way, promoting it and helping us get the word.”
Rev. Stamas added that his own family has been affected by cancer and that he doesn’t think there is anyone in his parish that hasn’t felt an impact in their families.
“Cancers are still dreaded diseases. When you hear the word ‘cancer’, something sticks in your stomach. You wouldn’t wish it on your worst enemy,” he said. “I have to say, it’s one of our greatest ministries, to be able to give all these thousands of dollars each year to a worthy cause.”
“Noble Hospital is honored to be the recipient of the funds generated from this wonderful family event,” said Allison Gearing-Kalill, vice president of community relations for Noble Hospital. “We are truly grateful and feel blessed for the friendship and support that we have received from Father Stamas and the congregation of St. George Cathedral.”
“We invite everyone to experience this glorious occasion and share in the Christmas Spirit,” she said.
