With God’s blessing I am pleased to announce that The Reverend William T. “Tommy” Matthews has accepted a call to be the Associate Rector of St. Matthew’s, effective October 1, 2019.

Reverend Matthews hails from Sebastian, Florida where he served for four years as chaplain of St. Edwards Episcopal School in nearby Vero Beach. Father Tommy also served as associate at St. Peter the Fisherman in New Smyrna Beach, FL, and at St. Richard’s Episcopal Church in Winter Park, FL. Prior to ordination, Father Tommy served as lay youth minister at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Orlando, and All Saints Episcopal Church in Winter Park.

Father Tommy received his Master of Divinity degree from Nashotah House Theological Seminary in May 2014 and was ordained to the diaconate that same month. He was ordained to the priesthood in January of 2015. Tommy is a second-career priest, following many years’ experience in construction.

Father Tommy and his wife Debby have been married for 25 years. Debby is an occupational therapist. They have two children, Eli, a first-year physical therapy major at Advent University in Orlando, and Emily, a junior majoring in public health at the University of Florida (Go, Gators!!).

I have asked Katherine Reynolds, chair of the search committee, to help establish a transitions committee. If any of you would be willing to help Tommy and Debby transition to life in central Georgia, please let Katherine know.

Tommy’s email is tmattkayak@gmail.com, if you would like to send he and Debby a message of welcome.

was made Sunday, August 25 during both services on Sunday. Please join me in prayer that God will bless Father Tommy’s ministry among us and his work in the Diocese of Atlanta.

Peace,

Liz+