AREA CHURCHES TO PRESENT `I BELIEVE IN AMERICA' SHOW

Seven years ago, former First General Baptist minister Frank Bain had a dream of staging a patriotic cantata. The result, "I Believe in America," will be presented Wednesday through Saturday at the church.

Bain has moved on to another church in Kentucky now, but the cantata and its ecumenical nature continue.

"This is our gift to the community," said the Rev. David Griesemer, the church's current minister.

Singers from 10 area churches comprise the 35-member choir, which along with soloists will sing such patriotic tunes as "God Bless America," "The Star-Spangled Banner," "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" and "Taps." The singing will be interspersed with a narrative, dramatic readings and a slide show.

One of the highlights will be a children's version of "Rag Tag Flag," a tune made famous by Johnny Cash.

"There are some very moving moments in the play," Griesemer said.

The branches of the armed services will provide a color guard, and "The Pledge of Allegiance" will be given.

Promoting cooperation among churches and patriotism are goals of the production, the pastor said, adding: "Getting the churches together and recognizing the freedoms we do have as Americans.

"America's not as bad a place as everybody thinks it is."

"I Believe in America" will be presented at 7:30 p.m. at First General Baptist Church, 1812 Cape La Croix Road. Advance reservations are required and can be made by phoning 334-2234. Admission is $2.

Griesemer said the production has a secular orientation. "There is no religious content, but this year we did throw in a good old gospel medley."

Churches participating in the program are Cornerstone Assembly Church, First General Baptist Church of Cape Girardeau, First General Baptist Church of Jackson, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Grace United Methodist Church, Hanover Lutheran Church, Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Jackson, Lynwood Baptist Church, Mount Auburn Christian Church and First Free Will Baptist Church.