JUDA — Following a tradition of more than 20 years, the choirs of the Juda Zion and Oakley Union United Methodist churches will again open the Advent season with a Christmas musical. 

“Journey to The Manger” will be presented at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 2 and Sunday, Dec. 9 in the sanctuary of the Juda Zion Church, N2350 Church St.  The program tells the story of the meaning of Christmas, as the main character travels back in time to the depression era, Italy during the Renaissance, the streets of England, a little church in Austria and finally to the Manger, before coming back to the 21st century.  The musical is directed by Shelly Jordan, and includes the following cast and choir members: Gene Dobbins, Dennis Pfingsten, Kim Becker, Bob Severson Jr., Darlene Becker, Kim Shields, Jake Hoesly, Joyce Hoesly, JoAnn Eberle, JoAnn Dobbins, Peggy Jordan, Kay Carter, Patrick Daniels, Julie Davis, Jean Busker, Sharon Creuzer, Libby Jordan, Rudy Kaderly, Judy Kaderly, Jan Ladwig, Peggy Matzke, Heidi Bolton and Dave Busker. 

The Children’s Choir, directed by Judy Kaderly, will also participate and includes Mason Foster, Hunter Foster, Blake Adkins, Christina Roth, Gracyn Bolton, Sophie Bolton, Tucker Boston, Ciarrah Davis, Ryleigh Brown and Liana Daniels. Pat Daniels and Brian Matzke are in charge of lighting and sound. 

A time of fellowship and refreshments will follow each performance.