SALEM – The Phillips Christian Church recently welcomed Dr. Rick Cherok as its new minister.

Cherok was born and raised in Barberton, Ohio. After completing two bachelor’s degrees from Kentucky Christian University and two master’s degrees from the University of Akron, he gained his PhD in United States Religious History from Kent State University.

In addition to serving as a professor of history at Cincinnati Christian University, Ozark Christian College, and Kentucky Christian University, Cherok has held ministries in Arkansas and Ohio.

Along with being widely published in books, magazines, and other periodicals, Cherok has served in editorial positions with the Stone-Campbell Journal, Discipliana, the College Press Publishing, and is currently the Managing Editor of the Christian Standard.

As the founder and Executive Director of Celtic Christian Mission, an organization dedicated to evangelism in Ireland, Cherok has led hundreds of people on short-term mission trips to Ireland and hundreds more people on additional mission trips to other locations around the world.

Cherok’s favorite pastimes include reading, writing, travel and watching baseball.

“I’m excited about relocating to the Salem area,” said Cherok, “and I believe great opportunities lie ahead for the Phillips Christian Church.”

The church is located at 35459 Salem Grange Road, Salem. Services are 9 a.m. Sunday School/Bible Study and 10 a.m. worship.