Since the closing of the Extraordinary Year of Mercy and the shortening of church hours (doors now close at 6pm), my visits to the Shrine Church of Most Precious Blood in NYC’s historic Little Italy has been considerably reduced. So when I had the opportunity to attend the church’s monthly “Music & Voices” concert series Thursday evening, I jumped at the opportunity. 

Master of Ceremonies and organizer Bill Russo warmly welcomed guests and kicked off the festivities with a brief, but interesting, talk about the history of the church and neighborhood. Multi talented Music Director Kim Kalesti was joined by vocalists Katherine Appello, Aviva Jaye and Michelle DellaFave. The ensemble sang “I’m just gonna to share my love with you" and "It wasn’t nobody's fault.”