Upper West Side Cathedral Will Host Social-Distanced Caroling

UPPER WEST SIDE, NY — Despite the justified changes that the coronavirus pandemic is bringing to most people's holiday plans, a well-known cathedral on the Upper West Side is doing its part to offer a little festive celebration still.

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine, at West 112th Street and Amsterdam Avenue, will host a performance of classic carols, spirituals, and motets sung from the cathedral's front steps on Dec. 13 at 3 p.m.

The musical celebration will be led by Kent Tritle, the director of the cathedral's music program. Additionally, social-distancing will be required at the event.

"In a year when so much has been affected by COVID, holiday traditions and ways to (safely) join together in celebration and observance are still greatly needed," the cathedral wrote in a news release about the event.

The Upper West Side place of worship will also work with the West 111th Street Block Association to help put up seasonal lights in the surrounding area to add an even more festive feel.

The Cathedral of St. John's the Divine is one of the most prominent churches in the neighborhood. It holds more than 30 services a week and serves roughly 25,000 meals annually from its soup kitchen.

You can find out more about the cathedral on its website.