When Valencia Christian Center recently moved the church’s venue to the Bella Vida senior center, they wanted to do something to celebrate.
“It’s a new space, it’s the holidays, and we wanted to celebrate that and raise money for our scholarship funds — we were thinking, ‘We could incorporate all of that,’” music director Theresa Bailey said, adding, “and this is just what we wanted.”
The inaugural Christmas at Valencia Christian Center: A Gospel Jazz & Comedy Concert Experience was a hit, with the first half dedicated to musical performances, while the second was dedicated to comedy, according to Senior Pastor Swanzi Saunders.
“Music speaks to anybody, and it’s an important part to our parish,” Marketing Director Terry Collier said, adding they hope to make the event an annual one. “Everyone is bringing their gifts together to make this happen, and we’re so happy to bring everyone together.”
Saunders agreed, adding, “Valencia Christian Center is a unique congregation — we have some very special gifts and talents. We wanted to contribute to the wonderful holiday options that Santa Clarita already has and add that to a season that’s already festive and celebratory.
“I think we were able to do that in a unique way, and we hope to make it something that happens every year that people can look forward,” she added.
