Friday, April 25, 4:00 - 8:00 PM

Support our youth’s mission trip to Michigan by dining at Panera Bread! Visit the Chandler location at 2820 E Germann Rd. on Friday, April 25, and 25% of net sales will be donated to our Youth Group Mission Trip. Use code FUND4U when ordering online at panerabread.com, in the Panera App, or at the kiosk in-café to ensure your purchase counts toward our fundraiser. Enjoy a delicious meal while making a difference—thank you for your support!

Stand Up with Saint Matthew's at the Upcoming Valley Interfaith Project Assembly:

Wednesday, April 23, 6:30pm-8:00pm

Paradise Valley United Methodist Church: 4455 E Lincoln Dr., Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

The federal Medicaid program is at risk for drastic cuts. Arizona's Medicaid program, known as AHCCCS, provides health insurance for 2 million low-income people across the state. Saint Matthew’s is a member of Valley Interfaith Project (VIP) which has a long history of bipartisan work supporting Medicaid. Please sign up to attend this important community education event to learn about the issue and how we can organize to stand up for preserving Medicaid. We will organize carpools from Saint Matthew's for those who need rides.

Sunday, April 20, 10:00 AM

Mark your calendar for our annual Easter Celebration! Join us for our Easter Brunch - spiral sliced ham, egg casserole, fruit, cake and The Sherbet Bar in Matt’s Cafe during the 10 o’clock hour but only after the children meet Ms. Amy in the courtyard for an egg hunt followed by activities! Bring your basket (and your camera)!

Friday, April 18, 1:00 - 3:00 PM

Our Memorial Garden will be open for a time of reflection and prayer. You are invited to explore our pathway meditation stations with the special addition of icons by artist Janet McKenzie from their book, The Way of the Cross: The Path to New Life.

Saturday, April 12, 9:00 PM - Parish Hall

Join our Altar Guild for the annual folding of the Palm Crosses in preparation for Palm Sunday! No experience is required - all prospective helpers will be taught the necessary folds. We hope you will join us. Hosanna!

Sunday, March 30, 10:15 AM

Join us for our New Member Event. There will be introductions and time for your questions about life and ministry at Saint Matthew’s. This is a great opportunity to get to know our ministry leaders, vestry members and other new members.

Saturday, March 22, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Saint Matthew's will be hosting a reflective and rejuvenating day of spiritual renewal as we seek deeper connection with God and compassion for one another through listening, contemplation, prayer and reflection. Snacks will be provided. RSVP required.

Sunday, March 16, from 10:15 to 10:55 AM

The Becoming Beloved Community group invites you to join a 40-minute session to get to know others better and explore challenges. Led by a trained facilitator, each session is limited to 6–7 participants. The next session will be held during coffee hour on Sunday, March 16, from 10:15 to 10:55 AM. Contact Larry Dumka to join this or a future session.

One Day Only Donation Drive - Sunday, March 16th, 7:30 AM - 12:00 PM

On Sunday, March 16th, Saint Matthew’s Outreach Committee will collect items for the Assistance League of the East Valley, supporting their programs like Operation School Bell, Assault Survivor Kits, and scholarships for EVIT graduates. They provide essential clothing, school supplies, and crisis assistance to children, teens, and adults in need.

Needed items include:

• Jewelry

• Gently used clothing and accessories (men’s and women’s)

• Housewares

• Books for children and young adults

• Monetary donations

Please bring your donations in a bag or container. Vehicles will be available in the parking lot before and after each service for collection. Monetary donations can be made via check or online. Thank you for your support!

Thursdays, Mar-13 - Apr-10

5:45 PM - Supper, Parish Hall | 6:30 PM - Evening Prayer, Chapel

Join us Thursdays in Lent for Lenten Supper and Evening Prayer! We will share a light meal at 5:45 PM followed by an Evening Prayer service in the Chapel. Children’s activities are available select weeks; be sure to check Ms. Amy’s newsletter for dates. Sign up to contribute to dinner: www.saintmatthewschurch.org/events/soup

Ash Wednesday - March 5, 2025

Join us for the Imposition of Ashes on Ash Wednesday. We have three opportunities for worship and reflection:

7:00–8:00 AM – Ashes to Go, Parking Lot: Meet our Deacons in the parking lot for an offering of prayers and ashes for those in need of a quick option.

12:00 PM – Holy Communion, Sanctuary: A service with music and the Imposition of Ashes.

6:30 PM – Holy Communion (Livestreamed), Sanctuary: A full service with our choir, the Imposition of Ashes, and an optional children’s activity in the Narthex.

🥞 Flip into Fun—Join Us for a Pancake Dinner! 🥞

Tuesday, Mar-4, 5:30 - 7:00 PM - Parish Hall

Join us for a delicious and joyful Pancake Dinner on Tuesday, March 4, 5:30 - 7:00 PM. This parish event is free, but we will gratefully accept an offering at the door or online.

📅 Shrove Tuesday, Pancake Day, or Fat Tuesday prepares for the beginning of Lent, a season of reflection and fasting. Pancakes are traditionally eaten to use up eggs, fats, and sugar before the fast begins.

⏰ Serving from 5:30 – 6:45 PM

✝️ At 6:45 PM, Rev. Monica will burn and bless last year’s palms—bring yours if you’d like to add them!

📌 RSVP online or sign up in the narthex so we cook the right amount of food.

Come hungry and ready for fellowship—we can’t wait to see you!

YG - MT - Fundraiser - Spaghetti Lunch & Pie Auction

Sunday, Mar-2, 12:10 PM

You’re invited to our annual Spaghetti Lunch and Pie Auction! Join us for lunch on March 2. Each year our youth host this event to raise funds for their upcoming mission trip. This year they'll be volunteering in Michigan.

This is a great opportunity to meet new faces at Saint Matthew's and be served a delicious meal. Gluten free pasta is available. (Oh, and the homemade pies up for auction are DELICIOUS!)

Discipleship Day

Saturday, Mar-1, 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM

Christ Church of the Ascension in Paradise Valley

Discipleship Days are 1 day, in-person gatherings to help you learn, inspire, and connect. We are hosting 3 days, in Phoenix, in Tucson, and in Flagstaff. You do not have to participate in all 3 days; each day is catered to meet the needs of leaders in those geographic areas.

Lunch will be provided and childcare is available upon request. Registration for this event is $30 per person.

This event is open to all lay leaders and clergy within the diocese.

Who should come to the Discipleship Days?

Anyone who wants to grow in their faith and has a ministry of leadership in a congregation. That includes clergy and laypeople!

What should I expect at the Discipleship Days?

• A keynote address by the Rev. Jim Clark about healthy church culture

• Bible Study led by Canon Anita 

• Time with Bishop Reddall 

• A choice of workshops on church finance/stewardship, Vestry/Bishop’s Committee orientation; the role of the Deacon in the congregation; and the Spiritual life 

• Brief presentations on a couple of diocesan ministries

• Peer learning and sharing with others from around the Diocese

The first Discipleship Day is Saturday, March 1st at Christ Church of the Ascension in Paradise Valley. We hope to see you there!

Support the Chapel Rock Campership Fund & Transform a Child’s Summer!

Pass The Plate for Chapel Rock: Feb-23 - All Services

As summer approaches, your generous support of the Chapel Rock Campership Fund ensures that no child is turned away due to lack of funds. Chapel Rock is a place where campers experience the love of Jesus Christ, build lasting friendships, and strengthen their faith. With activities like team-building, adventures at the lake, and campfire laughter, it’s a place of spiritual growth and lasting memories.

We aim to fully fund five camperships through our Pass the Plate event on February 23. Donations can be made online, by check (memo “Chapel Rock”), or in the offering plate. Your support will help send a child to camp this summer, creating a life-changing experience filled with faith and friendship.

Pass The Plate for UBE-AZ Chapter: Feb-16 - All Services

On Sunday, February 16, we will Pass The Plate to support the Karl and Virginia Washington, Arizona Chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians (UBE). The UBE is dedicated to promoting the involvement of Black people in the total life of the Episcopal Church—spiritually, politically, and economically. They work to eradicate racism within the church and society while enhancing the quality of life for all people.

Your generous contributions will support their mission of inclusion, empowerment, and justice. To learn more about their impactful work, visit ube-az.org.

On February 16, all lose cash and checks with UBE-AZ in the memo line will go to support the important work of this ministry. If you’d like to donate online, please donate directly to UBE’s paypal account.

Saturday, Feb-15, 2025, 10:00 AM

Join us as we celebrate the life and ministry of The Rev. Absalom Jones (1746-1818), the first Black Episcopal priest, ordained in 1802.This annual service, hosted this year by Saint Matthew's in Chandler, welcomes participants and attendees from across Arizona. Together, we will honor this milestone in Episcopal history and recognize the challenges faced by African Americans in the early Church.

Presented by: Union of Black Episcopalians Karl and Virginia Washington Arizona Chapter and The Episcopal Diocese of Arizona

Hosted by: Saint Matthew's Episcopal Church, 901 West Erie Street, Chandler, AZ 85225

Reception to follow. Livestream available.

Episcopal Habitat Coalition - Sunday, Feb 2, 10:15 AM - Chapel

Mark your calendars for February 2—a truly inspiring day at Saint Matthew’s! During coffee hour, step into the chapel at 10:15 AM to meet the newest homeowner supported by the Episcopal Habitat Coalition, a project partially funded and built with love by our community. Hear their incredible story, see how our Habitat outreach is making a difference, and discover ways you can get involved. Don’t miss this heartwarming opportunity to connect, celebrate, and ask questions during a special Q&A session. Let’s come together to make a difference, one home at a time!

Annual Meeting: Sunday, Jan-26, 9:30 AM, Sanctuary

All parishioners are warmly invited to attend our Annual Meeting on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at 9:30 AM, either in person or online. As in years past, this adjusted schedule will include worship services at 8:30 AM and 11:30 AM.

During the meeting, we will reflect on and give thanks for the past year, hear the "State of the Church" address, and elect new Vestry members and Diocesan Convention delegates. This year:

• The Junior Warden will be elected to a one-year term.

• Four Vestry members will be elected to three-year terms.

• One Vestry member will be elected to a partial, one-year term.

• Five Diocesan Convention delegates will be elected to represent the parish at the Diocesan Convention on October 10–11, 2025, at All Saints’ Church and Day School in Phoenix.

The Voice of Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Congregational Church of The Valley, 240 S Cooper Rd, Chandler, AZ - Sunday, Jan-19, 6:00 PM

All are invited to a Candlelight Vigil honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The event will include music, Civil Rights Era songs, and speakers, reflecting on Dr. King's legacy of love, justice, and equality. Sponsored by Chandler Men of Action, the vigil brings together East Valley faith groups in community service. 

MLK Celebration of Diversity!

King of Glory, Tempe, AZ - Sunday, Jan-19, 3:00 PM

Our choir will join others from around the area to participate in the Grand Canyon Synod’s Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration of Diversity on Sunday, January 19, at 3:00 PM at King of Glory Lutheran Church (2085 E. Southern Ave, Tempe, AZ).

The event will feature a choir conducted by Charles Zoll, with LaRiche Lamar returning as vocal and gospel style coach. It’s an honor to be part of this inspiring celebration of unity and diversity, and all are welcome to attend! We encourage everyone to join us for this meaningful event celebrating the legacy of Dr. King. Let’s lift our voices together in unity and hope!

Sunday, January 19, from 10:15 to 10:55 AM

The Becoming Beloved Community group is hosting sessions to listen to each other’s important stories and increase our understanding of some of the challenges we face. These are one-time, 40-minute meetings led by a trained leader and limited to 6-7 people. Sessions are held select Sundays during coffee hour from 10:15 am to 10:55 am.

Contact Larry Dumka to sign up.

Christmas Eve Services at Saint Matthew’s Episcopal Church

Tuesday, Dec-24, 2024, 4:00 PM | 6:00 PM | 8:00 PM

Join us as we celebrate the birth of our Savior at Saint Matthew’s Episcopal Church with three beautiful services to honor the season:

• 4:00 PM - Contemporary Worship
  Enjoy a vibrant and joyful service with contemporary music led by State of Grace. This service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person.

• 6:00 PM - Traditional Worship
  A serene and timeless service featuring the majestic sounds of the organ and brass ensemble, along with beloved Christmas carols.

• 8:00 PM - Traditional Worship
  Experience a full, festive service with the choir, handbell choir, organ, and brass. This service will also be livestreamed.

Each service is a special opportunity to gather in celebration, reflect on the gift of Christ's birth, and enjoy the music and spirit of the season. Whether you attend in person or online, we invite you to experience the joy of Christmas with us!

Advent Soup Supper & Evening Prayer Series

Thursday, Dec-19, 5:45 PM

Join us for a peaceful and nourishing way to observe Advent at Saint Matthew's with our Soup Supper and Evening Prayer series, held on the first three Thursdays in December. A potluck-style supper will be served at 5:45 PM in the Parish Hall, followed by Evening Prayer at 6:30 PM in the Chapel.

This Advent, we're inviting parishioners to read Show Me Your Ways, Oh Lord: Devotions on the Psalms of Advent by Kathryn Nishibayashi, Beth-Sarah Wright, Nancy Frausto, and Kim Fox. To enrich our Soup Suppers, we'll incorporate an informal discussion on the book, providing an opportunity to reflect together on its insights. You can purchase the book on Amazon, and a limited number of copies will be available at the church for a suggested donation of $10, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Advent is a season of waiting and preparation, marked by reflection, prayer, and quiet hope as we anticipate Christ’s coming—both in the celebration of His birth and in His future return. Our Soup Suppers offer a simple yet meaningful way to share this season together, nourishing both our bodies and spirits as we journey through these weeks of anticipation.

All are welcome to join us for one or all of these evenings. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow parishioners, deepen your faith, and experience the beauty of Advent in community.

Our Annual Christmas Pageant

Sunday, Dec-15, 2024, 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM Services

Each year, our children take center stage to beautifully retell the Nativity story during our 9:00 and 11:00 AM services. Their passion and dedication shine through as they bring to life the birth of Christ with joy and enthusiasm.

This beloved script, crafted by Harlie Youngblood, draws from The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Matthew and Luke, making it a truly meaningful experience for our community. For over 20 years, this cherished pageant has been a highlight of our Advent celebrations, inspiring the congregation and reminding us all of the true spirit of Christmas.

Advent Soup Supper & Evening Prayer Series

Thursday, Dec-12, 5:45 PM

Join us for a peaceful and nourishing way to observe Advent at Saint Matthew's with our Soup Supper and Evening Prayer series, held on the first three Thursdays in December. A potluck-style supper will be served at 5:45 PM in the Parish Hall, followed by Evening Prayer at 6:30 PM in the Chapel.

This Advent, we're inviting parishioners to read Show Me Your Ways, Oh Lord: Devotions on the Psalms of Advent by Kathryn Nishibayashi, Beth-Sarah Wright, Nancy Frausto, and Kim Fox. To enrich our Soup Suppers, we'll incorporate an informal discussion on the book, providing an opportunity to reflect together on its insights. You can purchase the book on Amazon, and a limited number of copies will be available at the church for a suggested donation of $10, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Advent is a season of waiting and preparation, marked by reflection, prayer, and quiet hope as we anticipate Christ’s coming—both in the celebration of His birth and in His future return. Our Soup Suppers offer a simple yet meaningful way to share this season together, nourishing both our bodies and spirits as we journey through these weeks of anticipation.

All are welcome to join us for one or all of these evenings. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow parishioners, deepen your faith, and experience the beauty of Advent in community.

Sunday, Dec-8, 5:00 PM

Join us for a special Advent Lessons and Carols service, a beautiful and reflective tradition to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. The service is structured around a series of Scripture readings (lessons) that tell the story of the anticipation and prophecy of Christ's birth, paired with the sounds of handbells,hymns, and carols,  that deepen our experience of the season. Through these readings and music, we journey from the prophetic words of the Old Testament to the angelic proclamation of Jesus' coming in the New Testament.

This cherished liturgy invites us into the themes of anticipation, hope, and peace, allowing us to reflect on the true meaning of Advent amidst the busyness of the season.

Stay after the service for a cozy hot chocolate reception in the courtyard! Bring your family and friends to this special evening of music, reflection, and fellowship as we embrace the season of Advent together. Everyone is welcome!