The Rev. Steve Merrin grew up in Findlay, Ohio. He went on to receive his Bachelor of Arts in Youth Ministry from Eastern University, in the suburbs of Philadelphia. Later, he received his Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena California. He has been in Ministry for 25 years, 17 spent in youth ministry prior to serving as Head of Staff for the past 7 ½ years and as Associate Pastor of Family Ministries prior to that. He and his wife, Andrea, have four children (one in each of Bellefontaine’s Schools), Elijah, Samuel, Emma, and Isaac. They all cater to the needs of two Golden Retrievers, Max and Ace! In his spare time Steve enjoys anything with a good story (books, movies, tv), games (chess, Settlers of Catan, Risk…), loves music, camping, and travel.

Steve recently served as Moderator for the Synod of Mid-America, as well as various committee positions in Missouri Union Presbytery, and has also been the President of the Trenton Ministerial Alliance for his last three years in Missouri.

Steve has a heart for teaching, church growth and reaching out into the community. He and his family are looking forward to what God has in store for First United Presbyterian Church of Bellefontaine.

Contact details:
Email: steve@bellefontainepres.com
Phone: 937.592.6611 ext. 212

Anne Brienza, a life-long Presbyterian, is originally from Caldwell OH(Southeastern OH). She is a graduate of Bowling Green State University with dual degrees in Outdoor Recreation and Biology Education. Anne retired from the YMCA of Central OH/YMCA Camp Willson in 2012, after 30 years as a Program and Executive Director of the camp. She has been a member of 1st UPC since 1997 and is an Elder of the church. In addition to her Christian Education/Youth Ministry responsibilities, she also sings in the Chancel Choir.

Contact details:
Email: anne@bellefontainepres.com
Phone: 937.592.6611 ext. 212

Holly has been a life-long member of the Presbyterian Church. She was baptized into the former Presbyterian church and confirmed in what is now First United Presbyterian Church. She and Adam have been married since 1992. Her son, AJ is the joy of her life. Two dogs and three cats really run the household. Holly's hobbies include music, reading, music, theatre and more music. She also loves trivia.

Contact details:
Email: holly@bellefontainepres.com
Phone: 937.592.6611 ext. 210

Ralph has been a member of the staff her at the church since 2002. He does everything to clean, fix and make the church look beautiful. He is the epitome of the “behind the scenes” guy! We enjoy Ralph for much more than his daily job, he has a wealth of stories and is an expert whistler! He is also a husband, father and grandfather which takes up most of his free time.

Cindy is a retired BCS teacher whose first love is music of all kinds! As the Hand Bell Director, she challenges the Highland Ringers with great skill!! A wife and mother of three, grandmother of four, Cindy is also a staple in the Chancel Choir! We are delighted to have Cindy in charge of the “ding-a-lings”!!

2020 begins the forty-seventh year that Tom has served as our organist. But just the term “organist” is simply not enough for this man. He is a master of musical ability whether it be on the organ, piano, or the clarinet. His talent adds beauty to every service! In addition to being a member of the American Guild of Organists, Tom is very active as an accompanist for local theatre groups.