Lehighton church offers cantata with full orchestra

Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lehighton will mark the approach of Holy Week with a cantata, "Footprints in the Sand: A Journey to the Cross and Beyond" at 5 p.m. Saturday. The public is invited to attend.

The cantata is written by composer Joseph Martin and features traditional and contemporary songs accompanied by a full orchestra and two narrators. It traces the steps of Jesus from His hometown of Galilee to Emmaus, where He appeared to his disciples after the resurrection.

"This cantata will help people in their Lenten journey, to help them reflect on the reason for this season," said Susan Lovejoy, the director of music at Trinity and director of the upcoming cantata.

She noted that while many Lenten cantatas and services have a somber tone and reflect on the upcoming crucifixion of Christ, "Footprints in the Sand" has a joyful, upbeat message.

"It has a very joyful tone. The message is that yes, Jesus was crucified for us, but its emphasis is more on the resurrection," said Lovejoy. "This is not necessarily a sad time, but it's certainly contemplative and reflective, and a time to remember the sacrifice that Jesus made.

"All the pieces definitely have a joyful tone to them, which is a little different. They are joyful because we know the end of the story. The purpose of His life was to bring us salvation, and that has been woven into the songs."

The cantata will feature well-known traditional Lenten songs like "Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us" and "Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah," as well as contemporary anthems and choral songs.

"The music is beautiful. It is a thrill to have so many voices," said Lovejoy, who said the cantata will include about 30 performers, including members of Trinity's Sanctuary choir. They will be accompanied by a 17-piece orchestra and harp.

"We don't have a lot of churches in our area that provide live instrument pieces," she said. "It's a great learning experience for children and a wonderful experience for adults as well."

The cantata will begin during the normal worship time. A short service with Holy Communion will follow the cantata. A freewill offering will be taken.

Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church is located at 175 S. Third St. in Lehighton.