It is with a sad heart that I write to you about the tragic death of Pastor Steve Barr this morning.  This is a devastating loss to many as Steve was truly a servant to Christ and cared deeply for people in this community.

Steve was a long time supporter of Immanuel School and I do not remember a pastor's appreciation chapel in the past 8 years that he was not in attendance.  He also shares a family connection with Immanuel as he is cousin to Suzie Meyerhofer through Steve's wife Linnea. He had a passion for discipleship and it was a joy just to be around him.

Steve also was a force for good in Freeport and one of this city's biggest advocates for supporting our community.  Steve was a prayer warrior for the leaders of our city and for others.

As pastor of Eastgate Community Church, Steve not only cared for his people, but also cared for other congregations in this community.  I remember one time how he led his congregation to worship and give offering at another congregation in town in order to have a unified support to show Christian love.  His pastoral leadership at Eastgate is indispensable and this will be a great loss for that congregation.

I am reaching out to all of our friends to encourage you in reaching out to this church family and to Steve's family.  You can do this through prayer for them first and foremost, however I would also encourage you to help them in any way possible.  

Steve will be greatly missed, and yet great is his reward with Christ.  He has run his race and for reasons unknown to us, God has taken the soul of Steve to be with Himself.  So we wait the day of the Resurrection when we shall re-unite with all of the blessed Saints like Steve.  Until that day, take courage and inspiration from his faithful life as a dedicated servant to Christ our Lord.