Jazz Meets the Nativity: New Spirit Lutheran in Tucson Hosts “Bending Towards the Light”
Saturday, December 13 at 7:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 14 at 5:00 p.m.
New Spirit Lutheran Church — 8701 E. Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ 85710
New Spirit Lutheran Church in Tucson is once again hosting Arizona’s exclusive production of Bending Towards the Light: A Jazz Nativity, a vibrant musical retelling of the Nativity that blends the beauty of Christmas with the soulful language of jazz. Performances will take place on Saturday, December 13 at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 14 at 5:00 p.m.
This beloved production has become an annual tradition for many in the community. People of all faith backgrounds, jazz lovers, families, and those experiencing the show for the first time return year after year for its joyful and hope-filled message. The work was composed and arranged by singer-songwriter Anne Phillips, created at the suggestion of the late Rev. John Garcia Gensel—known as “The Jazz Pastor” of St. Peter’s Church in New York City. Since its 1985 debut, Bending Towards the Light has captivated audiences with its blend of sacred story, musical improvisation, and creative celebration of the Christ child.
Rooted in the Lutheran commitment to proclaiming Christ through diverse expressions of art and culture, the Jazz Nativity invites us to hear the good news in a fresh and imaginative way. It’s an opportunity to encounter the familiar story of God-with-us—Emmanuel—through rhythm, melody, and joyful proclamation.
Tickets are available now.
Learn more and purchase at www.jazznativity.org/tucson.
We encourage congregations, families, and ministry partners across the synod to support this unique offering and share the invitation widely.
