An ecumenical cantata of nearly 80 singers will come together to present ‘The Greatest Story Ever Told” at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 27 in the sanctuary at Zion United Church of Christ on Second and Iron streets in Lehighton.

The group of singers come from more than 15 different local churches in Lehighton and surrounding communities.

The cantata, written by Dennis and Nan Allen, tells the story of Christ’s birth through readings and songs. Narrators for the event are Kathy Long and Dan “Deacon” Evans.

The songs are a beautiful mix of traditional and modern music, as well as spirituals and ballads. Included are: “For Unto us a Child Is Born” with “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 the 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 long-time Zion UCC chancel choir members Carol LaRose and Shirley Wentz.

Soloists for the cantata are David Riegel and Casi Reichard. Laura Reichard serves as the groups accompanist and will also offer special musical selections and play Zion’s historic Austin Pipe organ.

The group of singers will be accompanied by Zion’s Festival orchestra with 19 members from Lehighton and surrounding areas.

In addition to accompanying the choir, the orchestra will also offer A Festive Fanfare with Christmas selections including “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “A Most Wonderful Christmas,” “All is Calm,” “Christmas Music for Orchestra,” “Christmas Rocks at the Pops,” and “A Christmas Festival.”

The event is free to the public, but a free-will offering will be collected to benefit Zion’s many ministries that help so many in the community.

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