Greccio: The Song celebrates St Francis of Assisi and the first living Nativity at Greccio. In this Franciscan Jubilee year, as we commemorate the 800th anniversary of St Francis’ death, we hope the musical will inspire renewed faith, love for Jesus, and a deeper commitment to peace and service. The beautiful Franciscan connection to Wellington’s Catholic beginnings is worth reflecting on. Fr Jeremiah O’Reilly, a Capuchin Franciscan, arrived in 1843 and established Wellington’s first Catholic chapel on the site of today’s St Mary of the Angels Church, the National Shrine dedicated to Mary Assumed into Heaven. That chapel was dedicated to the Nativity. The name St Mary of the Angels also recalls the Portiuncula in Assisi, the little church beloved by St Francis—connecting our local Catholic heritage with the saint and Christmas story at the heart of Greccio.
The production also marks 60 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and New Zealand. This Filipino-led faith and arts initiative features music by New Zealand composers Dr Robert Loretz and Douglas Mews, alongside works by Franciscan friars from the Philippines. Filipino artists and volunteers contribute through production, artistic direction, performance, and set design, while parishioners from our Catholic communities generously share their talents as cast members, singers, and volunteers. As a Fundraising Partner, our parish Te Awakiarangi will receive 25% of net ticket sales from bookings made through its assigned fundraising link or matching QR code. Using your assigned link or QR code ensures that bookings are credited to our Te Awakairangi parish. May this Jubilee help all of us hear the call of St Francis: to follow Christ, to rebuild His Church, and to become instruments of His peace.
Bring your family and friends to Greccio: The Song, a new musical inspired by St Francis of Assisi and the first Nativity at Greccio, celebrating the Franciscan Jubile and 60 years of friendship between New Zealand and the Philippines.
Scan the QR code for tickets and support your parish. 25% of net ticket sales made through your parish link will be returned to the parish. (Full details on poster attached). For enquiries: vineyardhouse.nz@gmail.com