I'm Marv Steinberg and I'm learning to Love First. After listening to and observing Bill Stegall at MLK Day marches, Shirley and I decided to attend 1st Church in 2000 and soon became members. We both became involved in the life of the church—Bill encouraged ? me to join the SPRC and before I knew it I was chairperson. We made lasting friendships through the Dinners for Eight program. One of the highlights of our first years in the church was participation with the Felches in the Disciples Class taught by Avis Randall and Dan Smith. Throughout these years I was learning that God is not the all powerful God of my youth, but that God is love.
One of the opportunities I have been afforded is to serve on the Administrative Board. Through this experience I have been able to observe how much love there is throughout this congregation. We don't always agree but the love and concern for the church and its ability to serve its members and the community is always at the front of any deliberations. I have really appreciated all that have served during the years—I must mention the dedication over the years of people like Vi Klaseen, the Montgomerys, the Franks, the Colwells, Duane Lyon, Daylene Doyle, Nancy Bray, Marge Reid, and Ann Nelson.
That so many of you Love First shone clearly during the darkest days of my life. When we lost our daughter Suzanne, Marty and Kay were at our sides immediately. During the following days, as we planned for her memorial service, they were with us. It was a great comfort to know that so many of you held us in your hearts and prayers. And in the following difficult weeks and months, when we broke down in church or in a meeting, the pats on the backs from those sitting behind us and the hugs of many were examples of your love.
As most of you know with the encouragement of Bill Stegall, Kay Young, and Marty Murdock, I became involved in efforts to end the genocide in Darfur and to raise funds for those in camps in Chad and Darfur. While we have tried to work with other congregations and school groups, over 90% of the support and funding has come from this church. The involvement of so many of you either on-going or occasionally has helped me learn to Love First. Special thanks to Vicki Ono, Greg Lawson, Lynne Wonacott, Nola Wade, Debbie Livingston, Kimberly Carlson, Mary Burns, Sharon Brisolara, Tara Macy, John Whitmer, Donna Holscher, Ann and Damon Cropsey and Ted Klaseen.
Through the Thursday morning Bible Study class—first with Marty and now with Rod and a dynamic group of participants, I am growing in my love for this church. Finally, because of our love for this church and our commitment to being contributing members of this church and to helping each other in our endeavors, I know that the love my wife, Shirley, and I have for each other has deepened. I'm Marv Steinberg and I am learning to Love First.
