December 5, 2024
Borrego’s Sacred Christmas Concert 2024
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Each year, the Borrego Springs community gathers for a beautiful Christmas Cantata—a joyous celebration of music and the holiday spirit.
A Joyful Evening of Music and Community
As part of the Borrego Ministers Association's annual efforts, the Borrego Springs community came together for the Sacred Christmas Community Concert at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church. This cherished event celebrated the season through music, fellowship, and the spirit of giving.
Event Highlights and Performers
The program featured inspiring performances from local talents, including:
Chime Choir Performances:
- O Come, All Ye Faithful
- Away in a Manger
- Silent Night
- On This Day Earth Shall Ring (arranged by Anna Laura Page)
Chime Choir Members: Sally Theriault, Julie Kehler, Naomi Madsen, Sherry Harapat, Susan Worcester, Nathalie Larive, Lynnette Salton, Elaine Hazelrigg, Jennie Edwards, Dick Helvig, Geoff Barton
The Ballad of Bethlehem (A Cantata by Pepper Choplin):
- Voice in the Wilderness – Lynnette Salton, soloist
- The Ballad of Bethlehem (The Birth) – Sally Theriault, soloist
- Still Gentle Mary
- The Ballad of Bethlehem (The Shepherds)
- I Hear the Angels Shouting Glory!
- The Ballad of Bethlehem (The Wise Men) – Gary Edwards, soloist
- Shout with the Shepherds – Jennie Edwards, soloist
Additional Performers
Piano: Richard Helvig
Conga Drums: Sherry Harapat
Narrator: Chuck Bennett
Choir Members:
- Soprano: Jennie Edwards, Sherry Harapat, Julie Kehler, Louise Jee, Barbara Marlatt, Roberta Wall
- Alto: Beth Hart, Nathalie Larive, Naomi Madsen, Jeanne Plekon, Lynnette Salton, Sally Theriault
- Tenor: Marcia Dudley, Elaine Hazelrigg, Marjorie Schuessler
- Baritone: Geoff Barton, Gary Edwards, Ron Harapat
The evening concluded with the audience joining together for a sing-along of Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, filling the church with joyful harmony and holiday cheer.
Weeks of Dedication, Three Magical Performances
Under the direction of Jinny Perrin, the performers spent weeks rehearsing together, bringing their talents and passion to life. Their efforts culminated in three magical performances, delighting audiences with music, storytelling, and the joy of the season. It was a testament to their hard work and the strong sense of community that made the event so special.
Proceeds from this event support the Borrego Ministers Association’s mission to help those in need within the community, exemplifying the true spirit of the season.
For more on upcoming events and how you can support the BMA, visit borregoministersassociation.org.
Learn More About Borrego Springs
The 13th Borrego Springs Film Festival wrapped January 18, 2026, with sold-out screenings, red carpet moments, awards, and strong community turnout. The 13th Annual Borrego Springs Film Festival wrapped up January 18, 2026, closing five days of independent cinema, conversation, and community energy. Events were held throughout Borrego Springs, including free screenings at the Borrego Springs Library and ticketed block screenings and awards ceremonies at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center. Presented by the Borrego Springs Film Institute, the festival continued its traditional, theater-first format that brings people together to watch films in shared spaces and talk about them afterward. Several screening blocks sold out during the week, reflecting strong local interest and visiting attendance. That connection was clear during the live-streamed red carpet. Host Brianna Pinto described one of the festival’s defining qualities by saying, “Filmmakers get to interact directly with the audience,” noting that Borrego Springs draws viewers who truly watch and engage with the films. Filmmakers echoed that experience in different ways. A King’s Curtain director Grannan Johnson said it was especially meaningful to hear audience members tell him, “Oh yes, I saw your film,” calling Borrego Springs “a fun place to be” with “really nice, great people.” Documentary filmmaker Mitch Yapko (Watching Walter) described a moment when a full theater reacted together, saying the shared gasp from the audience made it clear they were fully engaged. The setting itself also left an impression. Actress Laura Bolin (Rage, Rhonda) called the enthusiasm of Borrego Springs audiences “contagious” and encouraged visitors to explore the landscape, describing the area as a place to “just wander” and take in the desert views.
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First day of mural work at Christmas Circle: Gabriel Wisdom with mural artist Anne-Sophie Gaudet and assistant Romain on site at 730 Christmas Circle.
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The 27th Annual Borrego Springs Golf Classic takes place on Friday, February 20, 2026, at de Anza Desert Country Club. Hosted by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego , this annual event brings golfers, supporters, and community members together for a day of golf and giving in Borrego Springs. All proceeds from the tournament directly benefit the Borrego Springs Branch , supporting programs that help local youth succeed academically, build good character, and develop healthy lifestyles. The event features a scramble-style round of golf , on-course activities, auctions, and a hosted lunch. It’s designed to be both competitive and social, welcoming participants looking to enjoy a meaningful day on the course while supporting youth programs in the Borrego Valley. Sponsorship & Participation A variety of sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and individuals interested in supporting the event and the Borrego Springs Branch. Sponsorships provide visibility throughout the tournament and help fund essential youth services. Event Details Date: Friday, February 20, 2026 Location: de Anza Desert Country Club 509 Catarina Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 Registration and additional event details are available through the event website. Learn More About Borrego Springs
