Marvin Sapp recently returned to his hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan to celebrate a street naming in honor of his late wife, Dr. MaLinda P. Sapp, as well as the 22nd anniversary of Lighthouse Full Life Center, the church that he and his wife founded. To commemorate that occasion, Sapp was the guest preacher at Lighthouse and facilitated the installation of an inscribed cornerstone on the church building.
Marvin Sapp says: “It was an exhilarating weekend as we celebrated the remarkable legacy of my late wife, Dr. MaLinda P. Sapp, in her beloved hometown of Grand Rapids. MaLinda devoted herself tirelessly to our community, and I am most thrilled that my children witnessed their mother’s legacy being honored in such a profound way. My two grandchildren were present as well. While they may not remember the ceremony, their parents will be able to share with them the significance of their grandmother’s life and contributions.”
The Grand Rapids City Council voted to name a portion of Madison Avenue Dr. MaLinda P. Sapp Way. A statement from city officials said, “…her legacy of service, education and faith continues to inspire generations.”
Dr. MaLinda P. Sapp served Grand Rapids with commitment, energy and grace. She was a professor of psychology at Grand Rapids Community College, founding principal of Grand Rapids Ellington for Arts and Technology, and administrative pastor of Lighthouse Full Life Center. Community service was always at the center of Lighthouse Full Life Center, which regularly provided outreach initiatives. Lighthouse remains a vibrant, community-focused church that is currently led by pastor RJ Marshall and his wife Kristan. Dr. Sapp was also a co-chair of the Grand Rapids Symphony Celebration of Soul event. As part of Celebration of Soul, the Dr. MaLinda P. Sapp Legacy Award was established to honor individuals and organizations for their on-going diversity efforts and accomplishments. The award celebrates an organization or person’s distinguished leadership and on-going commitment to advancing engagement, inclusion and diversity.
Dr. MaLinda P. Sapp’s commitment to service, which continues to inspire generations, was second only to her commitment to her children, Marvin II, MiKaila and Madisson.
The ‘Twins of Media’ had the chance to ask Marvin Sapp about the event. Read the exclusive interview here. ⬇️
What were your thoughts when you saw the unveiling of Dr. MaLinda P. Sapp Way, especially celebrating a full circle moment with the 22nd anniversary of Lighthouse Full Life Center, the church you and your wife founded? What do you want the street that bears your wife’s name to symbolize for those who are in the vicinity of it?
For my family, it was another moment of deep reflection not only about MaLinda’s contributions but the generosity of her spirit. We planted Lighthouse together, and my kids grew up there. To see that legacy standing after 22 years is wonderful. Installing Dr. MaLinda P. Sapp Way was a beautiful, indelible way to celebrate. I am overjoyed that my children and grandchildren will forever have a memory of their mother and their grandmother whenever they walk into the city of Grand Rapids, Michigan.
How do you commemorate your loved ones who is no longer here? How has their legacy influenced your life? Join the conversation here and stay connected with us at bsm_mag.
Original article/ Photos courtesy of Work Ink PR
