Romance of the Mission Benefit Gala
The most exclusive gala benefit hosted in Orange County every year. Features a pre-show hosted reception, extravagant entertainment in the Great Stone Church and the most romantic dinner setting display. Underwriting opportunities available.
Event Information
Friday, September 22, 2023
“If These Walls Could Talk“
5:30 IN THE EVENING
Reception in the Mission Gardens
Entrance through the Mission Gate House, 26801 Ortega Highway
Black Tie attire, no denim please
6:45 IN THE EVENING
Concert in the Ruins of the Great Stone Church, circa 1812
CANDLELIGHT DINNER TO FOLLOW
Mission Central Courtyard
Hospitality and Catering Services Provided by
Inn at the Mission, San Juan Capistrano.
Decor and design services generously given by Roger’s Gardens.
Ticket Information
TO GET INVOLVED:
1. Underwrite the Event/Attend the Underwriting Party on May 31, 2023:
Please contact Mechelle Lawrence Adams at (949) 234-1311 or email mlawrence-adams@missionsjc.com.
2. Purchase Opportunity Drawing tickets:
Please contact Mariela Martinez at (949) 234-1312 or email mmartinez@missionsjc.com.
3. Join Waiting List for limited available tickets ($1,000 each):
Please contact Darlynn Kitcher at (949) 234-1308 or email dkitcher@missionsjc.com.
For those who are unable to attend the Romance of the Mission but still want to support the Mission, please consider making a one-time donation to support the preservation of California Landmark #200 at www.missionsjc.com/donate.
Ticket Policies
TICKET SALES FINAL
Ticket sales are final. Mission San Juan Capistrano is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization. It requires immense effort and administration to process ticket orders. We are unable to accommodate refunds or exchanges. Thank you for your understanding.
EVENT CANCELLATION POLICY
Should there be conditions related to weather, rain, emergency or other conditions beyond control of Mission staff that should necessitate cancellation of the event, tickets will not be refunded. Please consider the cost of your tickets a charitable donation in support of Mission San Juan Capistrano, historic California landmark #200 and 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization #33-0833283.
2022 Romance of the Mission Honorees
Mission San Juan Capistrano Preservation Board of Directors proudly announces the 2022 Romance of the Mission benefit gala honorees:
Joan and Bill Cvengros
Bill Cvengros has served on the Mission’s Preservation Foundation Board for over 20 years. In his roles as secretary and audit chair, he has shared his expertise on ensuring the financial stability and transparency of the Mission. Joan has supported her husband in his efforts to serve the Mission. Together, they have made a lasting impact.
“It’s an honor for Joan and I to be part of such a special place that brings my family – and others – back time and time again to create new memories that last a lifetime.”
Bill Cvengros
“Bill is one of the truly good guys. He always cares and gives his best advice and insights that benefit the Mission San Juan Capistrano directly. We have been really lucky to have him as our audit chair as he has a keen financial mind and a great deal of experience in the business and nonprofit worlds. Along the way, we’ve always counted on Joan for supporting our efforts. The Pandemic has reminded us all, we need to take time to let people know they really matter. And in this case, Bill and Joan really do.”
George O’Connell, Mission Preservation Foundation President
Registry of “Romance of the Mission” Honorees
2022 – Joan and Bill Cvengros
2021 – Connie and Dr. Peter Spenuzza
2019 – Carol and Don Dorkowski
2018 – Madeline and James Irvine Swinden
2017 – Sheila and James Peterson
2016 – The Ladies and Gentlemen of
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
2015 – Bette and Wylie Aitken
2014 – El Viaje de Portola
2013 – Mike Hagan
2012 – Jan and Honorable H. Warren Siegel
2011 – Reverend Msgr. Arthur A. Holquin
2010 – Gilbert G. Aguirre
2009 – Congresswoman Patricia Bates
2008 – Father O’Sullivan
2007 – EJ Tracy
2006 – General and Mrs. William Lyon
2005 – Richard J. O’Neill
2004 – Joan Irvine Smith
2022 Romance of the Mission Concert Artists
Featuring Two Spectacular Performers Coming Together for the Event of the Season!
About Vonzell Solomon
Vonzell Solomon is an internationally known singer, songwriter, producer, recording artist, model and actress and was second runner up on the hit television series “American Idol.” Her grace, elegance, vocal range and electrifying performance wow fans all over the world. Vonzell has toured with a variety of shows ranging from American Idol, Broadway, and more and is currently on tour with David Foster.
About Terron Brooks
Terron is an accomplished singer, songwriter, actor, author, and motivational speaker who has performed with Stevie Wonder, Josh Groban, David Foster, Randy Jackson, Peter Cetera, Sheila E., and Smokey Robinson. Terron’s Broadway credits include “Simba” in Disney’s The Lion King and “Seaweed” in Hairspray. He is best remembered for his critically acclaimed portrayal of Eddie Kendricks in the Emmy Award winning NBC mini-series The Temptations.
Registry of “Romance of the Mission” Gala Concert Artists
2022 Artists – Vonzell Solomon and Terron Brooks
2021 Artist – Loren Allred
2019 Artist – Steve Tyrell
2018 Artist – Jackie Evancho
2017 Artist – Heather Headley
2016 Artist – Clark Beckham
2015 Artist – Scott Coulter, Lee Lessack, John Boswell
2014 Artist – David Burnham
2013 Artist – Susan Egan
2012 Artist – Davis Gaines
2011 Artist – Rod Gilfry
2010 Artist – Robin Follman
2009 Artist – Benise
2008 Artist – Nyle Wolfe
2007 Artist – Nichael Amante Encore
2006 Artist – Melissa Manchester
2005 Artist – Michael Feinstein
2004 Artist – Michael Amante Returns
2022 Opportunity Drawing
From Our Friends – Four Great Opportunities
Jewelry Package #1
gifted by Lugano Diamonds, Newport Beach
Value $15,600
Dazzling flower earrings showcase over 5.5 carats of pear-shaped rubies surrounded by round collection VS diamonds set in 18k yellow gold.
Inn at the Mission, San Juan Capistrano
Stay and Play Package #2
Value TBD
Includes a two night stay in a Villa, based on availability, complimentary valet parking, One 50 minute spa treatment, dinner for two at Ysidora and breakfast in El Café Real. *Restrictions apply
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club
Stay and Play Package #3
Value TBD
Two Night Stay in a Resort View Room, Complimentary Resort Fee and Valet Parking + Dinner for (2) at AVEO Table + Bar ($200.00 maximum dinner value).
Buy My Bikes, San Juan Capistrano
Electric Bikes Package #4
Value $2,000
One Electric Bzzz Bike
Best Selling Moped Style E-Bike Equipped With 48V Samsung Battery And 20 X 4 Inches Fat Tires.
Presented by the Mission Preservation Board of Directors
George O’Connell, President
Wylie A. Aitken
Darren O. Aitken
Trevor Baird
Vicky Carabini
William Cvengros
EJ Farrell
Kerry Herbert
Reverend Monsignor J. Michael McKiernan, Pastor
Reverend Monsignor Arthur A. Holquin, Retired
Paul Mikos
Anthony R. Moiso, Founding President
Connie Spenuzza
Seth R. Teigen
2022 Gala Committee
Kerry Herbert
Vicky Carabini
Laura Freese
Evonne Morton
Daisy Funk
Jan Siegel
Lisa Renee Baker
Laura Baratta
Mechelle Lawrence Adams
Stephanie Montes de Oca
2023 Romance of the Mission Partners and Supporters
Event Partners
Underwriting and Sponsorships
Underwriting and sponsorships available for Romance of the Mission, for more information please contact Mechelle Lawrence Adams at (949) 234-1311 or email mlawrence-adams@missionsjc.com.
Support Mission San Juan Capistrano and Save!
Member benefits include free daily admission and other exclusive perks.
: Join