Dec. 5 marks the annual Ecumenical Christmas Cantata at Zion UCC Church, Second and Iron streets in Lehighton. This event will feature vocalists from Zion's Chancel Choir, as well as singers from other churches in the Lehighton and surrounding areas.

The group will once again be accompanied by the Zion Festival Orchestra. The cantata for this year is entitled "On This Very Night" and features many pieces of music written just for this cantata as well as familiar Christmas Carols. It also features the song "Who Would Imagine a King" made popular by Whitney Houston in the movie, "The Preacher's Wife," as well as Michael W. Smith's song "Christmastime."This is an open event for anyone who enjoys singing. You do not need to belong to a church choir to participate in this program, which tells the story of the birth of Christ through readings and songs. All singers grade eight and above are welcome to sing in the cantata. A junior choir will also be featured in one of the songs and younger children are invited to join with this group.The group has already had two rehearsals with approximately 60 singers in attendance, but there is still time to join.The remaining rehearsal dates are as follows:Thursday, Nov. 18 at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 21 at 3 p.m.; Wednesday, Nov. 24 at 8:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Nov. 30 at 7:30 p.m. and Wednesday, Dec. 1 at 8:30 p.m.On Sunday, Dec. 5, the final dress rehearsal will take place at 3 p.m. with the cantata being presented that evening at 7:30 p.m.If you are interested in singing in this event, contact Brad Cressley, director of music, Zion UCC at (610) 392-1810.