Singers from the communities of Perham, New York Mills, Vergas, Frazee, Dent, Henning, and Ottertail have been rehearsing for six weeks to deliver a beautiful Christmas message in song this weekend.  The Cantata “Comfort and Joy” features a choir of approximately 40 local singers, with narration by Jim Arno. The choir is directed by Sheila Childs and accompanied by Janell Brakel. 

Performances are Saturday, Dec. 13 at 5 p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Perham and Sunday, Dec. 14 at 3 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran in New York Mills. 

St. Paul’s Lutheran is located at 500 6th Avenue SW, Perham. Trinity Lutheran is located at 424 Gilman Street E, New York Mills. The Saturday performance will feature prelude music by the St. Paul’s Bell Choir at 5 p.m., followed by the Cantata. There will be refreshments served after each of the performances in the churches’ fellowship halls. There is no admission charge. Those attending may contribute a free will donation, if they choose. 

“The Cantata is a great way to set aside some time to focus on the birth of Christ, with all the wonder and beauty of His coming,” said director Sheila Childs. “There are familiar Christmas carols, some jazzier pieces, and some beautiful duets. The narration pulls it all together. I think it will be very enjoyable for the listeners, as well as providing an opportunity to focus on the reason for the season.”