The Pope Benedict XVI Schola proudly presents “A Candlemas Concert” on Saturday, Feb. 2, at 2:30 p.m. at Holy Ghost Church in Knoxville. Proceeds from the program will benefit the Ladies of Charity of Knoxville, whose primary mission is to serve the poor by providing emergency assistance, food, clothing, housing and medical needs, and infant care.

The Christian feast of Candlemas, which falls on Feb. 2, rolls several celebrations into one. It’s the day on which the church marks the presentation of the infant Jesus in the temple; the purification of the Virgin Mary, 40 days after the birth of her son; and, traditionally, the official end of the season of Epiphany. 

The Schola’s repertory for the concert includes both Gregorian chant and choral works in Latin and English by Palestrina, Purcell, Victoria, Byrd, Sheppard, Tye, and Vaughan Williams. Organist Charles Walden, music director of Holy Ghost Church, will also perform.

Schola members come from churches throughout Knoxville, and the group’s director is Mary C. Weaver. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at the door or online, via Eventbrite. Holy Ghost Church is located at 1041 N. Central Street, Knoxville, TN 37917.

The Pope Benedict XVI Schola rehearses on Thursday evenings at Holy Ghost and welcomes singers ages 18 and up. For more information, call 865-437-8620, or e-mail Mary Weaver.