The combined choirs of Calvary Baptist Church, Emmanuel Baptist Church and North Columbia Baptist Church will come together to present an original Christmas program titled “Where Are You, Jesus?” beginning Sunday as part of a two-night showcase.
The program will combine lights, drama and music to tell the story of a young Jewish girl on a journey to find Jesus, according to Calvary Baptist Music Director Reuben McDowell. It will feature a 50-voice choir and include solos, a gospel quartet, a children’s ensemble, a full cast of characters and a visit from none other than The Grinch.
The combined groups began preparations in August and invite all of the Columbia community to witness the inspiring story of the search for the infant Jesus and the life-changing results of an encounter with the King of Kings, according to McDowell.
Calvary Baptist Pastor Shane Hoes said it’s great to collaborate with North Columbia and Emmanuel to bring something special to the community.
“The more that can join and be a part of it, that’s our mindset,” he said.
North Columbia Pastor Tommy Stogner said it’s great for the community when churches partner together and creates excitement.
“(It makes) people want to be a part of something like this,” he said. “I’ve seen them rehearse, and they’re doing a really good job. There is an angel scene where the angels come through the aisle, so I think the community will really enjoy it.”
Emmanuel Music Director Chris Turnage said he and McDowell started talking about doing a Christmas program together to create a bigger production and decided to up the grandeur by inviting North Columbia to join as well.
“It’s very exciting. It’s great to see all of the people from the different churches come together in unity to put on a production like this and using adult and children’s choirs as well,” Turnage said. “We’re hoping for a great turnout.”
“It certainly promotes the Christian message and certainly promotes Christ in our community,” Stogner. “It should put everybody in the Christmas spirit because that’s the whole point — Christ.”
The first performance will be Sunday at 6 p.m. then again Monday at 7 p.m. Both will take place at Calvary Baptist Church at 1309 Church St.
