By Oniska Blevins | The Selma Times-Journal

The Selma Choral Society will put on its 70th annual presentation of Handel’s “The Messiah” on Friday evening.

The performance will be Friday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. at Cornerstone Presbyterian Church. Handel’s “Messiah” was written in 1741 and has been performed by the approximately 30-member chorus for 70 consecutive years as a gift to the Selma community. The chorus is made up of members from different Selma churches, including some who travel to sing in the historic concert, which is free to attend.

Chorus members Clarice Holbrook and Sally Dunkley have been participating in the chorus for more than 30 years combined.

“We have people travel from all over come and sing to the Lord and help get the Christmas season started,” Holland said.

The organist this year is Sarah Cater, and the conductor will be Roger Walworth. The soloists will include Michael Robinson, Richard Morthland, Gery Anderson, Anne Snow Duraski, Thomas McLemore, Sara Jean McAteer, Lydia Campbell Howland, Tara Stickard, Marcia McMillan Edwards and Jimmy Mccully.