MESA, Ariz. — Coming together in the spirit of the Christmas season, members of Saint Anne Catholic Church in Gilbert and the Gilbert Arizona Stake formed a combined choir that performed at the Mesa Arizona Temple on Dec. 10.

"It's such a good feeling, bringing two faith groups together," said President John Lewis of the Gilbert Arizona Stake.

The relationship between the two churches, which are less than half a mile apart on Elliott Road in Gilbert, began in 1997 when the Rev. Doug Lorig of Saint Anne and President Lewis met to discuss ways in which youth from the two faiths could be brought together to foster better relationships within the community.

Since then the two churches have combined to serve the community in numerous projects and to build relationships that are warm and friendly among neighbors.

In 1999, choirs representing each church began putting on annual Christmas performances. Three years ago, leaders decided to combine the choirs.

"I think that all it took was getting people together, seeing the good in each other and working together to do good things," said President Lewis. "Friendships started quickly."

The 75-member combined choir, comprised of singers from ages 14 and older, performed at the Mesa Arizona Temple Christmas Lights Display on Dec. 10. A public dress rehearsal was held Dec. 7 at the Gilbert Stake Center in preparation for Sunday's performance.

President Lewis said the choir has turned out to be a "big hit" as part of the Temple Garden Christmas concert series, as they were invited back again this year for the third year in a row.

Jan Gilyeat, Gilbert stake choir director, and Trudy Sherman, Saint Anne's ecumenical interfaith representative, began working together in July, choosing music and making plans for the holiday presentation.

Selections included sacred arrangements of Christmas music with accompanists on piano, flute, and violin and several songs for a bell choir, which also included members of both congregations.

Rehearsals were offered three times a week for months to accommodate busy schedules and those who were interested in participating were asked to practice on the days when they could.

"It's been an incredible experience," said Sister Gilyeat. "It was a powerful performance. We were able to present a message of the Savior.... We were united."

She said the association has been positive for everyone involved. "It's been an outreach program on both sides. It has broken down the barriers of the unknown."

Trudy Sherman has been involved in coordinating joint projects between the churches since the first service activity for youth. She also directs the bell choir.

"It's been so important," she said. "I believe that Christ's primary teaching was to love one another. This is a visible sign that we can be different and still get along."

"That's what was intended," she added. "It's been a blessing."

Rev. Lorig left Saint Anne early this year; now the Rev. Greg Schlarb continues to provide leadership.

Members of both congregations feel the efforts have created a stronger bond between them in the community.