DIXFIELD — The Dixfield Congregational Church (The Church on the Hill) is planning a special afternoon of music, scripture and readings at 1 p.m. Sunday, March 17, to celebrate the gift of a brand new Roland piano/organ recently presented to the congregation. Proceeds from a love offering taken during the concert will in turn benefit the church’s local fuel assistance program that serves the community.

The organ was presented in loving memory of Oliver and Frances Blood and Frank S. Linnell. All three were staunch supporters of the church and beloved by the church membership. Their love for music was also evidenced and became a motivating factor in the presentation of the gift.

The afternoon of music will include sacred hymns and medleys on the new organ by the church’s music director and organist, Mary W. Fenstermacher. Special guest musician John Nickerson, sales manager for Starbird Music, Portland, will share his musical expertise on the new instrument and demonstrate the great sound and creative attributes of the Roland digital piano.

Nickerson has been a church musician since the age of 13. His passion for ministry has included studies at NBBI, Hartland, New Brunswick and sacred organ at Lancaster Bible College in Lancaster, Pa. After 10 years in pastoral work, he dedicated his life to musical ministry, working in church piano and organ sales throughout Maine since 1978. Nickerson is from Hermon, but recently he and his wife, Sharon, moved to Yarmouth.

“I have great childhood memories of Dixfield,” says Nickerson, whose family includes Don and Pam Young and daughter Karen, all formerly from Dixfield.

An additional musical treat will be presented by the children’s Chime Choir from the Webb River School on Pine Street. They will be offering sweet sounding hymns on the chimes.

Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in hymn singing. The concert is designed to lift spirits, as well as voices, to the Lord. All are invited to join the Dixfield Congregational Church members.