Breaking News: Christmas at Concordia Canceled

Photo Courtesy of Sower Staff

By Elisha Meyer

Concordia’s music department announced Monday afternoon that the annual Christmas at Concordia concert has officially been cancelled.

The decision was made after an influx of of positive cases of COVID-19 hit both Concordia University and Seward County. There are currently 24 positive cases in students and five cases in faculty members.

An update was posted to Concordia’s website Monday afternoon announcing the cancellation publicly. Students and faculty were made aware in an email released by Interim President Russ Sommerfeld.

Dr. Kurt von Kampen, chair of the music department, wrote to the students in the bands, choirs, and handbell choir about the issue, saying that the cancellation was necessary.

“Your safety, and the safety of all our students and faculty, continues to be our first priority,” von Kampen said.  “To keep everyone safe, we cannot go forward with the recording as planned. ”

Those who have purchased the package for this year’s performance have the option to either complete their purchase as a donation to Concordia’s music program or receive a refund from the university.

Sommerfeld said to remember that while the concert would not commence, the message of the coming of Jesus Christ would, quoting Romans 8:34 in his response.

“While the effects of COVID-19 bring disappointing changes to our plans, Jesus the Christ of Christmas does not change and is with us to bring hope and peace,” Sommerfeld said. “Jesus is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.”