Musicals and cantatas are the norm for most churches and they are not unfamiliar to Hephzibah Baptist Church. But, Hephzibah does move off the beaten path from time to time to present non-seasonal musicals.

One of those musicals, "Evidence of Grace," will be presented at the 11 a.m. service Sunday and again at 6 p.m.

According to Tim Sims, minister of music, "Evidence of Grace" is a praise and worship type musical, but it is not being presented "instead" of an Easter cantata.

"We had a lot of special music at Easter, but we didn't do just strictly an Easter cantata," Sims said. "We have done non-seasonal musicals before and they have been well received.

'Evidence of Grace' is an opportunity to experience God at a different time of year in a different way.

The musical traces the difficulties of life, sickness and death and demonstrates how the grace of God can see you through these things."

The worship musical traces God's Hand of Mercy through a collection of songs, drama and a video presentation.

"The musical involves the congregation as they are invited to sing along," Sims said. "The words to the songs are projected on the video screen so those not familiar with the songs can sing along. However, some of the songs will be familiar to most."

"Evidence of Grace" will be presented by the Hephzibah Adult Choir and the drama team.

Scott Yielding of Columbus, Ga., will be the guest soloist for the musical.

The drama portion of praise service will included theatrical lighting and sound and should be a powerful presentation, Sims said.

"A big part of 'Evidence of Grace' will be presented though the video which will be shown on two large screens," Sims said.

When Hephzibah has presented non-seasonal musicals in the past, there was only one performance at the morning worship hour. "Evidence of Grace" will be presented at the 11 a.m. service and again at 6 p.m.

"Attendance at non-seasonal musicals has been very good," Sims said. "During the work and preparation for this musical praise service, it was requested that we present it at some time other than the regular service so that those from other churches

might have an opportunity to attend."

Because some area churches don't have an evening service, it was decided Sunday night would be an opportune time for the non-seasonal musical presentation.

The public is invited to attend both services.

Hephzibah Baptist Church is located at 2701 Henderson Highway, Troy.