Rev. Hicks named pastor emeritus at WM church

WEST MIDDLESEX — The Presbyterian Church of West Middlesex and the Shenango Presbytery this month bestowed the honor of pastor emeritus on the retired Rev. John M. Hicks.

Rev. Hicks pastored the West Middlesex church for 22 years, retiring in 1998. He was presented with a plaque and a painting by local artist Jocelyn Beatty. A luncheon followed the Oct. 4 service.

For the last 11 years, he has served as a guest pastor and conducted many weddings and funerals, done counseling and attended social events at the church. From 1999-2003 he pastored Rich Hill Presbyterian Church in Wilmington Township, Lawrence County.

Rev. Hicks, 76, served four other Presbyterian churches before arriving in West Middlesex in 1976. A native of Michigan, he is a graduate of Westminster College and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, and is an Army veteran.

He and his wife Marilyn, whom he married in 1957, live in Grove City. They have three children and six grandchildren.

Sharon Baptist offering addiction program

HERMITAGE — A Shenango Valley chapter of the Reformers Unanimous addiction program is a recent addition to the ministry of Sharon Baptist Church, 1531 George St., Ext., Hermitage.

The group meets at 7 p.m. Fridays. Info: 724-347-5314.

Greater Mount Zion hosts special services

FARRELL — Ebenezer Church of God in Christ, New Castle, will be the guest at Greater Mount Zion Church of God in Christ, 1825 Roemer Blvd., at 7:30 p.m. today. Supt. Eric Brooks will be accompanied by his choir and congregation.

On Sunday, Pastor Willie J. Roberts and First Lady Pauline Roberts will be honored.

The Rev. Thomas Bolling of Second Missionary Baptist Chuch, Farrell, will be the guest speaker for the 11:30 a.m. worship service. At 5 p.m., Rev. Richard Roberts will be the guest speaker and will be accompanied by the choirs and congregation of Valley Baptist Church.

Theme for the week is “Lets Move Forward.”

New Life Covenant plans verbal abuse program