Singers from about 25 area churches and vocal groups will unite at 7:30 p.m. Sunday to present the annual Ecumenical Christmas Cantata at Zion United Church of Christ, Second and Iron streets, Lehighton.

The program is offered under the musical direction of Bradly R. Cressley, director of Music at Zion UCC.

This year’s featured work is “His Name Is Jesus” by Dennis and Nan Allen.

The cantata was purchased in loving memory of Shirley Wentz, Judy Harris, Carole LaRose, and former Zion UCC director Paul R. Smith, each remembered for their dedication to church music and the life of the congregation. The orchestration was provided through the generosity of members of a former group of singers, who wished to honor the tradition of this community event.

The evening’s printed bulletin is being dedicated to Dan “Deacon” Evans, a longtime participant in past cantatas who also served as narrator for several productions. His involvement, enthusiasm and support of the cantata tradition are warmly remembered.

Selections from the cantata include “His Name Is Jesus”; “What Did You Say Was the Baby’s Name?”; “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”; “Angels We Have Heard on High/His Name Is Jesus” (reprise); “What Child Is This?”; “The Shepherds Came to Bethlehem”; “Mary Sang a Lullaby” and “The Name of Jesus/Finale.”

Narration will be offered by Kathy Long and Dave Riegel with Riegel also featured vocally in “What Did You Say Was the Baby’s Name?”

Additionally. the vocal ensemble will present the anthem “The Journey Begins Tonight.” Scripture readings and the Call to Worship will be led by the Rev. Dean Frey, minister of Zion UCC. The Rev. Kathy Long, minister at Trinity Lutheran Church, will offer Advent reflections and prayer.

Accompaniment will be provided by Zion’s Festival Orchestra, featuring musicians from Carbon County and beyond.

The orchestra will present several seasonal preludes, including “Christmas Rocks at the Pops,” “Concert Suite from The Polar Express,” “A Most Wonderful Christmas,” “Suite of Carols” (donated by orchestra member Jennifer Mann), “Christmas Visions,” and “Rhapsody on a Christmas Carol.” Additional piano and organ music will be offered by Laura Reichard, Zion’s organist.

Corporate sponsorship for the Festival Orchestra has been generously provided by Hiles Brothers Co. of Summit Hill and Haggerty Financial of Jim Thorpe. Their support helps make this annual tradition possible and is deeply appreciated.

The event is free and open to the public. A freewill offering will be received to support the outreach ministries of Zion United Church of Christ.