The Kiev Symphony Orchestra and Chorus (KSOC) is part of Music Mission Kiev, a ministry founded by Roger and Diane McMurrin, former Presbyterian choir directors from Florida. On their first visit to Kiev, Ukraine, in 1992, they formed a choir to perform Handel’s Messiah. During the Soviet era, Christian-based music had been suppressed. The response to this concert, from both the audience and the musicians themselves, was overwhelming. It was clear that there was a strong hunger to hear more about Jesus.

A year later, the McMurrins moved to Kiev permanently. Since then, Music Mission Kiev has established ministries for widows, orphans, and prisoners and has founded two churches. KSOC US concert tours help to raise funds. The choir has also gone on the road as an outreach ministry into other ex-Soviet republics.

Many UPC members, including the Cathedral Choir, have traveled to Kiev on short-term mission trips to work with Music Mission Kiev. UPC member Rosemarie Voyles has served on the board of Music Mission Kiev for seven years.

The KSOC will be performing in the UPC Sanctuary on Monday, September 24, at 7pm. Tickets are available beginning Sunday, August 26, in Larson Fellowship for a $15 suggested donation. This event sold out in 2002, 2004, and 2008, so don’t wait to get your tickets! All proceeds support KSOC and other ministries in Ukraine.