Zion UCC will present “The Greatest Story Ever Told” at 7:30 p.m. Sunday.

The group of nearly 100 singers comes from various denominations from more than 20 different local churches, including Lehighton and surrounding communities.

The cantata, written by Dennis and Nan Allen, tells the story of Christ’s birth through readings and songs. Narrators are Kathy Long and Dan “Deacon” Evans. The songs are a mix of traditional and modern music, as well as spirituals and ballads.

They will include, “For Unto us a Child Is Born/ Open the Eyes of My Heart;” “Heaven Sings Glory;” “Angels from the Realms of Glory” (Emmanuel); “A Strange Way to Save the World;” “One King with We Three Kings of Orient Are;” “It’s Still the Greatest Story Ever Told;” “It’s About the Cross;” “Go Tell!” with “Go, Tell It on the Mountain” and “Finale: Angels, from the Realms of Glory” (Emmanuel).

This is a brand-new cantata that was purchased with gifts from members of 2017’s ecumenical cantata.

The orchestration for this cantata was purchased with memorial gifts in memory of longtime Zion UCC chancel choir members Carol LaRose and Shirley Wentz.

Soloists for the cantata are David Riegel and Tara Crowe. Laura Cressley serves as the groups accompanist, and will also offer special musical selections and perform on Zion’s historic Austin Pipe organ.

The group of singers will be accompanied by Zion’s Festival orchestra, with 18 members from Lehighton and surrounding areas.

In addition to accompanying the choir, the orchestra will offer special Christmas selections including “Christmas Visions,” “German Carol Festival,” “Christmas at the Movies” and “Silent Night,” which will be dedicated to the memory of Betty Love, a longtime cantata participant who recently passed away.

The event is free, but a freewill offering will be collected to benefit Zion’s many ministries, which help many in the community.

The cantata is under the direction of Bradly R. Cressley, director of music at Zion UCC.