Saint Matthew United Methodist Church

  • The Voice of the Shepherd

    Jason Hardy
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    The Voice of the Shepherd
    Scripture: John 10:27-28

    Rev. Mary Teague reflected on the comforting promise that Christ knows each of us by name and continues to guide us as a shepherd cares for the flock. In a world filled with noise, distraction, and uncertainty, Jesus reminds us that we are not abandoned or forgotten. The voice of the Shepherd calls us toward love, grace, belonging, and deeper trust in God’s presence.

    Drawing from John’s Gospel, the message explored what it means to recognize and follow Christ’s voice in our daily lives. The Shepherd’s voice is not one of fear or condemnation, but one that leads us toward compassion, service, healing, and community. Even when we struggle to find direction or feel uncertain about the future, God remains near, patiently calling us forward and holding us securely in divine love.

    As a church, we are invited to listen together for the ways Christ is leading us in this season of ministry and life together. We are reminded that following Jesus is not simply an individual journey, but a shared walk of faith where we care for one another, encourage one another, and seek to reflect the love of Christ in the world around us. The Shepherd continues to call, and we continue to respond together.

    Take Time to Reflect

    • Where do you most clearly hear God’s voice in your life?
    • What distractions make it difficult to listen for Christ’s guidance?
    • How can we help one another follow the Shepherd more faithfully?

    John 10:27-28 New International Version

    27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.

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  • Kids’ News – Go and Tell the World

    Sue Kelcey

    Have you ever been given a really important job and wondered if you could do it?

    After Jesus rose from the dead, He spent time with His disciples, helping them understand what had happened and reminding them that God’s love is for everyone. One day, Jesus met them on a mountain and gave them an important mission. He told them to go out into the world, share His teachings, and help others learn how to follow Him (Matthew 28:19–20).

    This was a big job, and the disciples may have felt unsure or even a little afraid. But Jesus gave them a promise to hold onto. He said that He would always be with them, no matter where they went. They were not being sent out alone. God’s presence would guide them, strengthen them, and give them the courage they needed.

    That same promise is true for us today. We may not travel to faraway places, but we can share God’s love in simple, everyday ways through kindness, helping others, and telling people about Jesus. Wherever we go, we can remember that we are never alone. Jesus is always with us, leading us and helping us share His love with the world.

    What We Learned

    • Jesus calls us to share His love with others
    • We do not have to be afraid because Jesus is always with us
    • We can live out our faith through kindness and everyday actions
    • Everyone can be part of God’s mission, no matter their age

  • A Word from our Church Family

    Jason Hardy

    We give thanks for the many ways God’s love is shared through the life of our church.
    This past Sunday, our choir offered a beautiful expression of worship under the direction of guest conductor Julian Rodriguez. Their music created a space of reflection and praise, helping to center our hearts in God’s presence as we gathered together.

    We are especially grateful for the spirit of prayer, thoughtfulness, and shared commitment present at our recent Family Business Meeting. Together, we took meaningful steps in discerning the vision for Saint Matthew, seeking to listen for God’s guidance as we move forward as a church.

    Each week, we come together in worship, fellowship, and service, trusting that God is at work among us—guiding us, strengthening us, and leading us forward in love.

  • A Word from the Pastor

    Mary Teague

    I greet you with the love and peace of Christ,

    In a time marked by uncertainty, division, and fatigue, our congregation is being called—clearly and faithfully—back to God’s vision. Like the prophet Habakkuk, many of us have cried out, asking “How long?” and “Why?” Yet God’s response remains the same: Pay attention. Write the vision clearly. Keep your eyes on Me.

    At St. Matthew, we believe God does not intend for this church to wither, but to flourish. We have the identity, resources, courage, and calling to be exactly what God intends for this neighborhood and beyond. Our vision is rooted in the way of Jesus: moving toward the poor, creating space at the table, pushing back darkness, and announcing that the kingdom of God is near.

    At its heart, our vision is love—the kind of love revealed in the resurrection, where fear, grief, and hate never have the final word. Our vision is intergenerational community, honoring wisdom, history, and the assurance that God is trustworthy. Our vision is belonging, extending beyond Sunday mornings into a vibrant, welcoming presence every day of the week. And our vision is seeing the image of God in one another and in all those still searching.

    Together, we commit our plans to the Lord, trust God’s leading, and step forward—imperfect but willing—to be the hands and feet of Jesus in this world.

    I am thrilled by your response to this sermon and overjoyed by your engagement in our family business meeting on Sunday. God has great things in store for us and I am blessed beyond words to be in ministry with you. 

    Remember each other in prayer and with thanksgiving for all that God is doing in our lives. Blessings, Mary

  • Newsletter for April 29, 2026

    Jason Hardy
    2026-04-29 St Matthew TodayDownload