Update: Concert will be hold on the Auditorium iPod Our Lady of the Lake School.
We are excited to welcome Tony Melendez to Our Lady of the Lake on Monday, April 8 at 7:00pm for a concert and adoration in the Church. Tony was born without arms because his mother was prescribed thalidomide to calm her morning sickness during her pregnancy. He was brought to the Los Angeles area from Nicaragua to be fitted with artificial arms. He wore them until he was ten, when he disposed of them. He didn’t feel comfortable with them, he explained “I could use my feet so much more.” His proficiency with his feet extended to more than day-to-day care. He started playing push-button organ, then in high school he began playing guitar and harmonica. He also began writing songs. While in high school, he became very involved in the Catholic church. He considered becoming a priest, but priests were required to have an index finger and a thumb. He persevered in his talents playing the guitar and was a composer for Masses and church related events. Demand for him increased and caught the attention of someone who was organizing activities for the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1987. Tony was excited and nervous to play for the Pope. The Pope responded to Tony’s playing with a kiss. Since then, Tony has traveled across the US and 40 foreign countries, making TV appearances, including The Today Show, Good Morning America, and The Late Show to name a few. Through his concerts Tony Melendez generates hope and a commitment to help bring people’s hearts toward Jesus Christ. We hope that you can join us to listen to Tony’s words of encouragement – all are welcome!
