Christ Community Church held its annual Christmas cantata on Thursday, Dec. 6.

Worship pastor Rob Ely conducted the evening's program. Ely, assisted by Brenda Wilson, Marie Riedsel, Maria Mitchum and Marlene Dean, helped orchestrate the cantata's musical numbers.

The adult and children's choirs performed renditions of Christmas favorites such as "Tiny Little Town," "Let Us Adore Him" and "Come On, Ring Those Bells."

Mid-performance, the Christ Community Church choir was joined by professional Christian vocalist Julie Elias.

Originally from Grapevine, Texas, the singer-songwriter joined Christ Community Church for a one-night only engagement. This arrangement was forged after Elias met worship pastor Rob Ely, at a ministries conference in Orlando, Fla.

Elias performed songs such as "The Blessing" and "O Come All Ye Faithful," both appearing on her recent album, "Holy Night." Following a 30-minute set singing solo, Elias was joined for a duet of "Christmas Day."

Kelly Mitchum served as the evening's emcee, while the festive decorations were designed by Billie Anne Peterson and Bill Fifield.

Readers interested in learning more about Christ Community Church are encouraged to visit CCCPinehurst.org.