Rockford Choral Union has been doing this work every year since 1945 (with the exception of 2020) when a group of local church members decided to greet returning veterans following WWII with this oratorio depicting the prophesy, birth, life, persecution, death, and glorious resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The "Messiah" is one of the most performed works in the classical genre. These concerts will include most of the work with about 70 choristers from many area churches, four professional vocal soloists, harpsichord, trumpet, organ and a Baroque orchestra. Michael Beert will be directing for the seventh year.

George Frideric Handel reputedly said of the work after its premier performance in Dublin, Ireland in 1741, "I should be sorry if I only entertained them (people), but to make them better."