For the past 20 years or so, on the Friday before Christmas, the halls of the William W. Backus Hospital are filled with a magical symphony of voices as the entire St. Patrick Cathedral Choir of Norwich sings hymns and songs of the holiday season for patients, visiting family, and staff.

What's even more special is that five of these devoted choir members are Backus Hospital employees. Carol Geiler, LPN, Employee Health Services; Linda Kyle, RN, Same Day Surgery; Lesa Hanson, RN, Emergency Department; Chris Breton, Laboratory Supervisor; and Charlie Gomes, Laboratory Services Aide.

"It's such a pleasure to see the radiant smiles on the faces of the patients when we sing to them," says Ms. Geiler, an alto with the choir. "Being hospitalized is never easy, but it's even harder for patients during the holidays. We bring a little of the merriment of the season to them, and it's a great feeling."

The 30-member cathedral choir, robed in dark green with gold sashes, has been an integral part of parish life at the cathedral for more than 50 years. The choir provides the music for the 9 a.m. Mass every Sunday, which has been broadcast for many years on local radio station WICH. In addition to visiting patients at Backus around the holiday season, the choir also sings for various liturgical and special events throughout the year, including special Masses for professionals such as the military, attorneys, firefighters, educators and medical professionals.

"Visiting Backus Hospital to share the joy of the season with our neighbors and friends is one of the highlights of our year," says Douglas Green, Choir Director. "We feel we carry our prayers and the warmth of God's love to the patients. By singing familiar hymns and favorite holiday songs, we can bring a few moments of enjoyment to people of all ages who are not well."

For Soprano Linda Kyle, the choir's visit to Backus Hospital's Oncology floor holds a special place in hear heart. "It's very moving to see family members of cancer patients at the doors of their loved ones' rooms, holding each other -- often with tears amid their smiles -- as we sing. It reminds me how spiritual music can be and how much peace it can bring.

Tenor Charlie Gomes, one of the newest members of the choir, enjoys the camaraderie and sense of community he shares with his fellow co-workers and choir members. Alto Lesa Hanson agrees, and believes the spirituality associated with singing in the choir is reflected in her work as an ER Nurse. "Spirituality is very important in nursing," she said. "I could not get through a shift in the ER without my faith."

During their holiday visit, the choir visits each floor of the Hospital, delighting everyone with holiday favorites such as "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear," Angels We Have Heard On High," "Jingle Bells," and many more.

"My favorite is the Halleluia Chorus," says Chris Breton, baritone. "It's a marvelous blend of all of our voices, a great celebration of our faith, and a true reflection of teamwork and commitment to excellence."