Joybells choir to perform at the World Meeting of Families

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- On Friday members of a local choir got some exciting news when they learned they'll play a role in the World Meeting of Families.

The Joybells of Melmark are going to perform during a weekend of festivities when Pope Francis visits Philadelphia in September.

This hand bell choir is entirely made up of adults with disabilities.

Formed back in the 1970s, the group prides itself on being more than a music class. They are performers, and have made appearances at the White House, The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, a gubernatorial inauguration, as well as numerous schools and churches.

Music Director Sue Graves says, "It focuses on their ability rather than their limitation."

And while they can't read music, the Joybells play beautifully following the hand signals of two professional music directors.

For Graves, she says the pure joy is on their faces.

She tells us, "It gives our guys an opportunity to shine. And every time they perform it's like the first time for them. They look at me and say, 'we did it!' And that is my reward."

The Joybells will perform on Sunday September 27th.

And if you would like more information on the choir, visit their website at http://www.melmark.org/the-joybells.

We look forward to seeing and hearing their music.