What to Expect

Welcome! We're glad you've come to visit our site, and hope you'll reach out to contact us with a question or comment, or just drop by for a visit on Sunday morning (our service is at 9.30 a.m.). 

St. Matthews is a Christian faith community meeting in a century-old historic worship space in downtown Kitchener. As Lutherans rooted in the rich biblical and spiritual traditions of Christianity, St. Matthews also practices an open, inclusive and progressive faith, being one of the first Lutheran churches in Canada to call a female pastor, the first to offer a live radio broadcast of Sunday morning worship services, and more recently one of the first to open its doors during the winter months to serve low-income neighbours through the Out of the Cold program. New families, singles, retired senior citizens, and youth continue to be attracted to our spirited, warm and caring community.

"God knows us and God loves us!  This is something we learn through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As we gather in worship, we are transformed by the Holy Spirit to help bring about God's Kingdom of mercy and love for all of Creation."  Pastor Sebastian

Our thriving church community is home to Pastor Carey Meadows-Helmer, Pastor Sebastian Meadows-Helmer and Diaconal Minister of Music, Deacon Scott Knarr. We also work closely with Martin Luther University College and have had many seminary students-in-training.

We run a traditional order of service and progressive programming for youth and children.

Our Sunday school program runs during worship.  Children start in church, and go down to the Sunday school after the children's message. Children of all ages gather together to sing spirit-filled music to kick-off the Sunday school program, have prayer and story time and then go into a classroom for a craft activity. 

What to wear? Come dressed however you like, and comfortable according to the season (please note that we do not have air conditioning in our Sanctuary).

“Singing is my favorite part of Church School” – Lilly