THE CHRISTMAS CANTATA CHORALE
In 1987 a young pregnant mother walked the streets searching for an ‘abortion’ clinic. Instead, she found a poster on one of the street corners saying, “Come home for Christmas” advertising a Christmas Cantata to be staged at the PICC Auditorium. She wandered out in the lobby as the show was starting wondering if anyone would welcome or tell her to go away. She was o
ffered a free seat instead and heard the message from that night’s concert that ANYONE could have a chance to be a part of God’s family; to belong to a group of people who would truly love and accept her unconditionally. She accepted Christ as Savior that night and then told the counselor her story… her wealthy boss was the father of her child cut when he found out she was with child, he dismissed her from the job and himself turned away. The baby, now a young man has found a job and is seeking his place in a productive world, thankful for the life and hope he was given. Reaching far and wide to people from all walks of life bringing the message of God’s unconditional love through music and fellowship is why the IBMF Cantata exists. Since 1975, the International Baptist Churches began to stage a professionally performed Christmas Concert at a major city auditorium every year for the purposes of:
• To provide opportunities for Christian musicians and ‘music lovers’ to use their God-given talents in singing and instrument playing.
• To explore and enhance musical talent among Christians young and old alike.
• To develop musicianship among the membership of IBMF churches.
• To train leadership in performance, concert, drama, stage production and evangelism.
• To afford an opportunity for individuals, groups, families, fellowships, a venue for watching a professionally produced musical celebration at very low priced tickets.
