CHOCOWINITY — It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and Chocowinity United Methodist Church is combining ministry and music for a family friendly event.

For more than 30 years, members of Chocowinity UMC have performed at Christmas, and this year, the performance will be a nod to the past, according to June Arnold, minister of music.

Guests can expect to hear some of those familiar favorites — carols ranging from “O Come, All Ye Faithful” to “O Holy Night,” along with some new ones, as well. Arnold said the idea is to take the audience members back to some of their best Christmas memories.

“We feel that part of our ministry is to tell the (story of the) beginning of Christmas,” she said. “It’s nice to hear some songs that you already know.”

The tunes of this year’s Christmas performance hold a special, spiritual meaning for the singers.

“The lyrics paint a very reassuring message that was needed that night and is still needed in our world today. There is no need for fear — our Savior, Christ the Lord has come,” writes Susan Everett, of the country-inspired “Angel Band.”

“As silly as this song is, it brings joy to those who sing it and joy to those who hear it,” Emily Smith writes about the fun and light-hearted “Fruitcake.”

Arnold said the performers start practicing for the big event around the month of October, and also do a good amount of independent practicing.

The support of the surrounding community has been helpful to the church in continuing this Christmas tradition for so many years, and serves as a motivating factor in preparing the best show as possible, according to Arnold.

“It’s obvious that it’s very important to them,” Arnold said. “I’m very excited for this. … I’ve had a wonderful time.”

Chocowinity United Methodist Church will present “Christmas Favorites” on Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. The church is located at 678 N.C. Highway 33 West, Chocowinity.