That silvery voice is coming to Saratoga on Dec. 11, when Collins performs at the sixth annual Ecumenical Celebration concert at Saratoga's Sacred Heart Church. Each autumn, the Sacred Heart Men's Club books a singer, choir or musical group to perform in the Ecumenical Celebration. The purpose—reflected in its name—is to bring together people of different Christian denominations as well as people of all other faiths to enjoy an uplifting musical experience.

Joined by the choir from St. Francis High School in Mountain View, Collins will perform a program she calls "A Judy Collins Christmas." Along with a variety of Christmas songs, Collins will also perform many of her best-known songs, including "Send in the Clowns," "Some Day Soon," "Who Knows Where the Time Goes," "Maid of Constant Sorrow" and her a cappella rendition of "Amazing Grace."

Sacred Heart parishioner Bruce Hodgin, perennial chairman of the Ecumenical Celebrations, says he's been wanting to bring Collins to the church for many years, but because of scheduling conflicts and booking fees, he put his idea on the back burner. In the meantime, he has secured many other performers over the years, including the internationally known Vienna Choir Boys and Chanticleer.

"Some people like to play golf; I like to put on concerts!" Hodgin says, chuckling.

However, this year Hodgin's dream finally panned out, thanks to some propitious connections and the fact that the city of Pleasanton was interested in booking Collins for a Dec. 12 concert; the two bookings resulted in a more affordable fee for both venues, Hodgin says.

"The big difference between this concert and those of the past is the professional lighting, the technicians and the sound; the lighting and sound requirements are extensive and specific," he says, adding that the church also rented a nine-foot German-made concert grand piano for Collins to play, as she only brings her guitar with her on the road.

Sacred Heart Church is located at 13724 Saratoga Ave. The concert begins at 8 p.m.; a dessert reception takes place afterwards. Reserved seating tickets are $40 to $50 each. Proceeds benefit various projects and improvements at the church school and parish.