The music department at Zion United Church of Christ, 2nd and Iron Sts. in Lehighton will once again host an Ecumenical Christmas cantata.

This year's cantata will be "Merry Christmas" by Don Wyrtzen and Phil & Lynne Brower. The date for the show is Sunday, Dec. 4 at 7:30 P.M.The singers will once again be accompanied by the Zion Festival Orchestra and will also be doing "Joyful and Triumphant", a choral work with orchestral accompaniment.The Zion Festival Orchestra will also be performing a number of pieces as preludes and postludes for the event.Although rehearsals have already begun, it is not too late to join this group of singers that is comprised of vocalists from many area church choirs as well as just those people who love to sing.Last year, over 70 members that represented over 20 churches and groups participated."Merry Christmas" is a creative cantata having the story of the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, told by a "host" and a grandfather and enhanced with beautiful music. It is upbeat and contemporary.Please note that you do not need to be a member of a church choir to join this group of singers and no experience is necessary.Rehearsals are:• Sunday, Nov. 20 at 3 p.m.• Tuesday, Nov. 22 at 7:30 p.m.• Thursday, Dec. 1 at 7:30 p.m.• Sunday, Dec. 4 at 3 p.m.If you are interested in participating, contact Zion's Director of Music, Brad Cressley, at 610-392-1810 or e-mail

ccmusic@ptd.net.