On Saturday December 12 the Philadelphia branch of the English-Speaking Union and the Society of the Sons of St. George joined St. James School to host an unforgettable Christmas benefit called Christmas on the Hill. Raising needed funding for student scholarships, this year’s event took place at Church of St. Martin-in-the-Fields in Chestnut Hill and had a unique Renaissance Christmas theme, complete with jugglers, strolling minstrels and more.
Over 120 guests attended the event that began with an Advent Service of Lessons & Carols in the church, featuring beautiful hymns sung by the choir of St. Martin-in-the-Fields.
St. James students presented awards to the evening’s honorees.
First, seventh grader Destiny spoke about the complete transformation of St. James School’s kitchen and food program, made possible by supporter Di Bruno Bros., inviting President Bill Mignucci, Jr. to accept a special award from the school.
Next, seventh grader Serenity talked about the many ways Philip and Sarah Price have worked to strengthen Philadelphia, and especially the Allegheny West neighborhood over the past 50 years. Mr. Price has been a St. James School board member since the school’s founding and spoke about how proud he is to be invest in the future leaders of the city, St. James students.
After church, guests enjoyed a vibrant reception in the parish hall with delicious food sponsored by Di Bruno Bros., wine tastings from Moore Brothers Wine Company, and Scotch tastings provided by ImpEx Inc. Along with special Renaissance music and entertainers, guests had the opportunity to bid on a variety of exciting silent and live auction items, including a week at a French chateau, Birding 101, and a special catered dinner at St. James School.
The event raised over $30,000 for St. James School student scholarships.
Special thanks to the many individuals who made this evening possible, including:
- St. Martin-in-the Fields, including The Rev. Jarrett Kerbel, Erik Meyer, and the choir
- The English Speaking Union and the Society of the Sons of St. George
- Event chairs, George and Ronna Tyndall
- Event committee members:
- Bob Brano
- Judith Francis
- Sharon Holt
- David Kasievich
- Chuck Lentz
- Angie McCole
- Miimi Munnis
- Barbara Murray
- Caroline Ramsey
- Margaret Wallis
Event Sponsors
Di Brunos Bros.
Moore Brothers Wine Company
ImpEx Beverage Inc.
Financial Sponsors
Shakespeare Sponsors
Anonymous, George and Ronna Tyndall
Michelangelo Sponsors
Michael and Susie Lastowski
Galileo Sponsors
Jim and Elaine Ballengee, Bill and Cantor Eagleson, David Kasievich and Andrew Kellner, John and Paula Wineland