UKIAH, CA., 11/25/25 – Start the season right with a Christmas Carol Sing at Crossroads Christian Church on Friday in Ukiah — a perfect end to Thanksgiving and beginning of Christmas season.
The free event is a gift to the community and open to all.
The purpose is simple: to sing the familiar carols that are part of holiday celebrations and Christmas traditions. Each participant will receive a hymnbook with the words and music for every carol. No musical experience is required — just bring your voice and join in.
The event will be led by Dr. Merril Smoak of Livermore, Calif. Smoak currently serves as dean of Olivet University’s Jubilee College of Music and as a senior professor at Olivet University’s Zinzendorf School of Doctoral Studies. For 39 years, he served as the associate pastor of music and worship at Trinity Church in Livermore.
“Singing is a great way to begin our December celebrations,” Smoak said. “Let’s join together and sing our favorite Christmas carols such as ‘Angels We Have Heard on High,’ `Go Tell It on the Mountain’ and `Silent Night.’”
The pianist and accompanist for the Carol Sing will be Rebecca Roberts of Pleasanton, Calif. Roberts is an accomplished pianist and recording artist with four published CDs: “New Beginnings,” “A Step Closer,” “Authentic Then and Now,” and her Christmas album “Another Reason.” Her keyboard arrangements blend hymn tunes with pop favorites and classics from well-known composers. She worked with Smoak for 27 years as the church pianist at Trinity Church. Her experience and style will support singing throughout the evening.
The annual Christmas Carol Sing takes place at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5 at Crossroads Christian Church, 900 S. Dora St., Ukiah. Contact Crossroads Christian Church at (707) 467-8400 for more information.