An invitation for area singers to join a mass choir to perform with Christian music artist David Phelps is still open. The Christmas concert will be Saturday, Dec. 19 at Mississippi University for Women’s Rent Auditorium in Columbus.

The Grammy Award-winning tenor, widely known for his work with the Gaither Vocal Band, filled the same auditorium in 2013. That concert was presented by Columbus’ First United Methodist Church, as this one is. A mass choir assembled for that performance sang on selected numbers with Phelps and his orchestra.

FUMC Music Director Dr. Doug Browning would like to see at least 100 singers come together for the Dec. 19 concert. Just one combined rehearsal is planned.

Browning noted, “It is such a pleasure and honor to be singing with someone of Phelps’ caliber. Those who participate in the choir will get a unique perspective from the musicians’ point of view.”

Singers from area churches, school and community choral groups and choirs are urged to take part. Those interested in more information should contact Browning through the church office, 662-328-5252.

“I encourage those who are willing to participate and make this event as great as it possibly can be,” said the director.

The concert will benefit The Good Samaritan Clinic, Helping Hands and Father’s Child Ministry.

Concert tickets are available at the church located at 602 Main St. and at iTickets.com. General admission tickets are $25. Artist’s Circle tickets are $35. Note that iTickets adds a service charge to the ticket price. The concert begins at 7 p.m.; doors open at 6 p.m.

Jan Swoope is the Lifestyles Editor for The Commercial Dispatch.