CHOCOWINITY — Patriotism will be paired with worship in Chocowinity for the 20^th year in a row.

On July 8-9, the Chocowinity United Methodist Church will host its annual Independence Day musical. This year’s production, “The Dream — The Country — The Flag,” will feature the classic songs “God Bless America” and “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” along with some new additions.

June Arnold, ministry of music at United Methodist Church, has been a part of the production for years. She writes and produces the script, selects the music and directs the choir. She said she selects the music by scanning through facts and information about the founding of America, while keeping in mind the influence of the Christian faith.

Arnold said in the two decades she’s been involved in the program, she’s seen a significant increase in community support. She noted her favorite part has become being able to showcase her beliefs and values to the community through song and screenplay.

“I have so much love for my God and for my country. This program allows me to be a constant voice. I can express my core beliefs of our God and our land through the musical,” Arnold said.

Arnold believes this event is one that promotes positive community spirit. The choir isn’t just the church choir; it includes musicians from across the county. Arnold said while finding times to practice can be tough, bringing the church members together adds fellowship and blends community talent.

“Finding time to rehearse is always a challenge. We all live busy lives, and it’s a positive thing that people are willing to sacrifice their time and give their talent to this program,” Arnold said.

The program will also spotlight the men and women who have fought for the country with an armed forces medley, paired with a slideshow of images and patriotic symbols.

Arnold said the production focuses around freedom and faith — an appreciation, awareness and love for the nation.

“This worship experience is a mission experience for the Christian faith as well as a history lesson for people of today,” Arnold said. “We want to enhance our knowledge of the history of America and its impact upon its citizens, and to impress this heritage for the future.”

The program is free to the public and will be held at Chocowinity United Methodist Church on July 8 at 7 p.m. and July 9 at 3 p.m. The church is located at 678 N.C. Highway 33 West.