Come and See
Upcoming Events
Christmas Pageant
Sunday, December 14, 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM Services
Get ready for one of the most joyful traditions of our Advent season! On December 14, our children will once again take the spotlight as they bring the Nativity story to life during the 9:00 and 11:00 AM services. Their energy, reverence, and heartfelt storytelling always make this a treasured moment for our whole community.
All speaking parts have been assigned, but registration for non-speaking roles will remain open through November 30.
We can’t wait to experience this year’s pageant with you. Celebrate the hope and joy of Christmas with us!
Advent Soup Supper & Evening Prayer Series
Thursday, December 18, 5:45 PM - Parish Hall, 6:30 PM - Chapel
Join us for a peaceful and nourishing way to observe Advent at Saint Matthew’s with our Soup Supper and Evening Prayer series, held the first three Thursdays of 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. Sign up to contribute to dinner.
This year’s dinners will feature an informal discussion using devotionals from A Light Upon My Path, a collection of daily reflections, prayers, and scripture readings that explore the light and hope of Christ in a weary world. Copies are available in the office for $10 each, while supplies last.
All are welcome to join us for one or all of these evenings. Come share a simple meal, meaningful conversation, and prayerful reflection as we journey together through the season of Advent.
Bells Beyond: Christmas!
Saturday, December 20, 6:00 PM
Celebrate the joy of the season with a beautiful evening of Christmas music for handbells—hosted at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. This festive concert will feature three ensembles: Holy Trinity’s Handbell Choir, Saint Matthew’s Episcopal Church’s Handbell Choir, and Bells Beyond. Enjoy beloved sacred and secular carols, and lift your voice in a special sing-along of Silent Night.
Come share in the music and the magic of Christmas!
Christmas Services
Wednesday, Dec-24, 2025, 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 Service with a children’s story instead of a sermon and Holy Communion: featuring State of Grace, our band (Livestream on YouTube)
6:00 PM | Traditional Worship Service with Holy Communion: featuring Carols, Organ & Brass Accompaniment
8:00 PM | Traditional Worship Service with Holy Communion: featuring our Traditional Choir, Organ & Brass Accompaniment (Livestream on YouTube)
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!
Thursday, Dec-25, 2025, 10:00 AM
Traditional Worship Service with Holy Communion: featuring Piano and Trumpet Accompaniment
Winter Camp: A Spiritual Fresh Start
Friday, January 2 - Sunday, January 4, 2026
Chapel Rock: 1131 Country Club Dr., Prescott, AZ 86303
Join families from Saint Matthew’s and across our diocese for Winter Camp at Chapel Rock! This is a weekend of faith, renewal, and connection. Winter Camp welcomes people of all shapes, sizes, and ages, including families with or without children. Each day offers opportunities for spiritual story art, music, gentle yoga, crafting, prayer and reflection, and plenty of time to rest and reset.
Bring a special object of faith to share as we gather around the campfire and tell our stories together. Registration is open!
Advent Soup Supper & Evening Prayer Series
Thursday, December 11, 5:45 PM - Parish Hall, 6:30 PM - Chapel
Join us for a peaceful and nourishing way to observe Advent at Saint Matthew’s with our Soup Supper and Evening Prayer series, held the first three Thursdays of 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. Sign up to contribute to dinner.
This year’s dinners will feature an informal discussion using devotionals from A Light Upon My Path, a collection of daily reflections, prayers, and scripture readings that explore the light and hope of Christ in a weary world. Copies are available in the office for $10 each, while supplies last.
All are welcome to join us for one or all of these evenings. Come share a simple meal, meaningful conversation, and prayerful reflection as we journey together through the season of Advent.
Matts Men – Monthly Men’s Group
Wednesday, December 10, 6:00–8:00 PM - Parish Hall
All men are invited to come as they are for an evening of conversation, laughter, and connection. Matts Men is a space to share what truly matters in our lives and faith. To talk honestly about where we find God and where we struggle to find God. Join us as we gather for fellowship and encouragement.
Event: Matts Men – Monthly Men’s Group
Date: Wednesday, December 10
Time: 6:00–8:00 PM
Location: Saint Matthew’s Parish Hall
Address: 901 W Erie St, Chandler, AZ 85225
Crafts, Cocoa, and Claus: A Saint Nicholas Celebration!
Saturday, December 6, 10:00 AM - Parish Hall
Come celebrate the Feast Day of St. Nicholas with us on Saturday, December 6, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Enjoy a fun-filled morning of creativity, fellowship, and festive spirit!
We’ll have a variety of St. Nicholas–themed crafts for all ages and a hot chocolate bar to keep things cozy. Feel free to bring a snack or dessert to share as we enjoy this joyful gathering together.
Please RSVP so we can plan accordingly for seating and supplies — we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Advent Soup Supper & Evening Prayer Series
Thursday, December 4, 5:45 PM - Parish Hall, 6:30 PM - Chapel
Join us for a peaceful and nourishing way to observe Advent at Saint Matthew’s with our Soup Supper and Evening Prayer series, held the first three Thursdays of 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. Sign up to contribute to dinner.
This year’s dinners will feature an informal discussion using devotionals from A Light Upon My Path, a collection of daily reflections, prayers, and scripture readings that explore the light and hope of Christ in a weary world. Copies are available in the office for $10 each, while supplies last.
All are welcome to join us for one or all of these evenings. Come share a simple meal, meaningful conversation, and prayerful reflection as we journey together through the season of Advent.
Tea, Coffee & Conversation with Rev. Monica
Wednesday, December 3, 9:00 - 11:00 AM
You’re invited to a relaxed and informal gathering for Tea, Coffee & Conversation with Rev. Monica! In our recent parish survey, many of you shared that you’d like to feel more connected to her. This will be a small, informal gathering where we can share stories and get to know Rev. Monica a little better outside of Sunday worship.
Space is limited to about 10 people for each date so that everyone has a chance to visit.
We hope you’ll take this opportunity to connect and enjoy some tea or coffee, good company, and warm conversation.
Consecration Sunday
Consecration Sunday: November 16, All Services
Join us as we deepen our understanding of giving as an act of faith. Inspired by biblical principles, Consecration Sunday emphasizes the spiritual joy of giving, not just to support our church’s needs, but to foster each person's relationship with God. Canon Clyde Kunz, Canon for Stewardship & Planned Giving, will be our guest leader, guiding us through this morning of worship, reflection, and commitment.
RSVP for the Celebration Brunch!
After each worship service, join us for a complimentary catered brunch in the Parish Hall. To help us prepare, please RSVP as soon as possible using the link below. Together, let’s celebrate our call to generous, proportionate giving and grow spiritually as we support the mission of Saint Matthew's in our community and beyond. We can’t wait to see you on November 16!
Join Us at Chandler Pride ‘25!
Saturday, November 15, 4:00 - 8:00 PM
Dr. A.J. Chandler Park: 3 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, AZ 85225
Free Event! Come represent Saint Matthew’s and the Episcopal Pride Committee at Chandler Pride 2025! The event will take place on Saturday, November 15, at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park from 4:00–8:00 PM.
Enjoy free admission, great entertainment, local vendors, and delicious food options!
Matts Men – Monthly Men’s Group
Saturday, November 15, 8:00–10:00 AM
All men are welcome—come just as you are. Whatever you may be going through, remember that God meets us where we are. You don’t have to walk through faith and life alone—come walk with us.
Matts Men is a group of men gathering in hope of creating a space where we can share what matters most in our lives and faith—when we find God there, and when we do not. Join us for good conversation, connection, and community.
Next Gathering:
Event: Matts Men – Monthly Men’s Group
Date: Saturday, November 15
Time: 8:00–10:00 AM
Location: The Coffee Shop (in Agritopia)
Address: 3000 E Ray Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296
Gratitude Gathering
Sunday, November 9 , 7:00 - 8:30 PM
First United Methodist Church of Gilbert: 331 S Cooper Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85233
Join us for this cherished holiday tradition, a welcoming space celebrating unity, respect, and gratitude across diverse faiths and cultures. Hosted by For Our Town Gilbert and For Our City Chandler, the event features service, dialogue, music, and the Golden Rule in action. Rev. Monica will offer a special blessing during the gathering.
Bring a friend and share in the warmth of community. This free event requires no tickets or RSVP—we look forward to seeing you there!
Deepening Community at Saint Matthew’s
Sunday, November 9, 10:15 - 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, November 9, from 10:15 to 10:55 AM. Contact Larry Dumka to join this or a future session.
Creation Care: Gift Guide Event
Sunday, November 2, 10:00 AM
Get a head start on your holiday shopping the eco-friendly way! Join us for this year’s Green Gift Guide Event, hosted by our Creation Care Committee. We’ll showcase a variety of thoughtful, Earth-friendly gift options to inspire your Christmas shopping. Items will be on display for you to explore, but nothing will be available for purchase—it’s simply an opportunity to gather ideas and discover sustainable options. Come see how your gifts can celebrate both your loved ones and the planet!
Join us for a fun, festive, and stress-free shopping experience! See you there!
Tea, Coffee & Conversation with Rev. Monica
Saturday, November 1, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
You’re invited to a relaxed and informal gathering for Tea, Coffee & Conversation with Rev. Monica! In our recent parish survey, many of you shared that you’d like to feel more connected to her. This will be a small, informal gathering where we can share stories and get to know Rev. Monica a little better outside of Sunday worship.
We will meet in the Living Room (C3) on the following dates:
Wednesday, October 22, 9:00 - 11:00 AM
Saturday, November 1, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Wednesday, December 3, 9:00 - 11:00 AM
Space is limited to about 10 people for each date so that everyone has a chance to visit.
We hope you’ll take this opportunity to connect and enjoy some tea or coffee, good company, and warm conversation.
Fall Festival: Pumpkin Palooza!
Sunday, October 26, 4:00 - 6:30 PM
Join us for our annual Fall Festival! Our Juggler, James Reid, will be returning. We’ll have music, games, a cake walk, chili cookoff, and more. Don’t forget to wear your costumes for the Trunk or Treat. Dinner will be provided.
Sign up to: Provide cake for the cake walk; Enter the chili cookoff; Include your vehicle in the trunk or treat; Volunteer or donate. Look for our table in the courtyard every Sunday!
Matts Men – Monthly Men’s Group
Wednesday, October 22, 6:00–8:00 PM - The Perch Brewery
All men are welcome—come just as you are. Whatever you may be going through, remember: God meets us where we are. You don’t have to walk through faith and life alone—come walk with us.
Join us for an evening of friendship and fellowship as we get to know one another, talk about what matters most in our lives, and discover how God is present—right here, right now.
Event: Matts Men – Monthly Men’s Group
Date: Wednesday, October 22
Time: 6:00–8:00 PM
Location: The Perch Brewery (Downtown Chandler)
Address: 232 S Wall Street, Chandler, AZ 85225
Tea, Coffee & Conversation with Rev. Monica
Wednesday, October 22, 9:00 - 11:00 AM
You’re invited to a relaxed and informal gathering for Tea, Coffee & Conversation with Rev. Monica! In our recent parish survey, many of you shared that you’d like to feel more connected to her. This will be a small, informal gathering where we can share stories and get to know Rev. Monica a little better outside of Sunday worship.
We will meet in the Living Room (C3) on the following dates:
Wednesday, October 22, 9:00 - 11:00 AM
Saturday, November 1, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Wednesday, December 3, 9:00 - 11:00 AM
Space is limited to about 10 people for each date so that everyone has a chance to visit.
We hope you’ll take this opportunity to connect and enjoy some tea or coffee, good company, and warm conversation.
Civic Engagement for Community Good
Monday, October 20, 6:30 PM
Location: St. Francis Xavier Church, 4715 North Central Ave, Phoenix, 85012
Saint Matthew’s is a member of Valley Interfaith Project (VIP), a non-partisan group of congregations that organizes to urge local officials to make decisions that improve community wellbeing (e.g., increasing affordable housing, mental health services). VIP is holding a county-wide meeting to set its agenda for 2026. Come and see how we can organize for good! Carpools from Saint Matthew’s are available.
Deepening Community at Saint Matthew’s
Sunday, October 19, 10:15 - 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, October 19, from 10:15 to 10:55 AM. Contact Larry Dumka to join this or a future session.
Acolyte & Crucifer Training
Saturday, October 18, 1:00 PM
All children, youth, and adults interested in serving are invited to an Acolyte Training Session on Saturday, October 18 at 1:00 PM in the Sanctuary, led by Darlene Abel, Verger, and Amy Trias, Director of Children’s Ministry. Acolytes (ages 9 and up) assist in worship by carrying the Gospel book during the procession and reading, adding beauty and reverence to the service, while Crucifers (7th grade and up, including adults) carry the processional cross, symbolizing the centrality of Christ in our worship. This training is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about these meaningful ministries and begin serving in worship.
Emergency Preparedness Training
Saturday, October 18, 9:30 - 11:30 AM
Saint Matthew’s Safety & Security Team invites Vestry, Clergy, Staff, Vergers, Ushers, and Greeters and other interested individuals to take part in an Emergency Preparedness Training. Led by Ericka Huston, Emergency Manager for the City of Chandler, Jozeppi “Joey” Morelli, retired New York State police investigator, federal agent, and 9/11 first responder, and Toni Murdock, Finance & Property Coordinator for the Episcopal Diocese of Arizona, this session will provide important tools and best practices to help keep ourselves, our parishioners, and our campus safe in everyday situations and in case of an emergency.
More details will be shared as the date approaches.
Living Better with Memory Loss Conference
Saturday, October 18, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM - Parish Hall
Join Successful Aging AZ at Saint Matthew’s Episcopal Church for a free community conference focused on creative solutions for everyday challenges of memory loss. A complimentary light lunch will be provided. This event is designed for those noticing signs such as confusion, misplaced items, difficulty finding words, or repeated questions. And, and for the loved ones who support them. Featured speakers include dementia care specialists and advocates who will share guidance on: Respectfully supporting loved ones as brain changes happen; Caring for yourself while caring for others; Creating meaningful engagement and connection; Legal planning considerations for families facing memory loss.
Episcopal 101
Six Thursdays, 5:30 - 7:00 PM
Have you ever wondered what makes the Episcopal Church unique, or are you looking to deepen your understanding of our traditions and practices? This fall, Saint Matthew’s will be offering a six-session class called Episcopal 101. This class is open to all—whether you are brand new, a long-time Episcopalian, or simply interested in learning more.
The course will be held in-person in the Parish Hall and via Zoom on Thursdays from 5:30–7:00 PM on the following dates:
October 9
October 16
October 23
October 30
November 6
November 13
Those who would like to be Confirmed or Received into the Episcopal Church when Bishop Reddall visits on Sunday, March 15, 2026, must complete all six sessions or arrange a makeup session with Rev. Monica.
Participants will need a copy of Walk in Love: Episcopal Beliefs and Practices. If you would like the church to order one for you, please let us know by Monday, September 15. The suggested donation is $15–20, and scholarships are available.
We hope you’ll consider joining this journey of faith, learning, and discovery!
Study & Worship Series: A Women’s Lectionary for the Whole Church
Wednesday, October 8, 2:00–3:30 PM
You’re invited to a special three-part study and worship series engaging with Dr. Wilda Gafney’s A Women’s Lectionary for the Whole Church, Year C. Each gathering will offer a unique opportunity to explore scripture, reflect together, and share in worship. You are welcome to attend one, two, or all three sessions—no registration is required.
To accommodate a variety of schedules, we’re offering the following times to gather:
Saturday, September 20, 10:00–11:30 AM
Wednesday, October 1, 10:00–11:30 AM
Wednesday, October 8, 2:00–3:30 PM
All sessions will take place in the Parish Hall, with light refreshments available before we begin. In preparation for our first gathering, you are encouraged (though not required) to watch the 45-minute documentary Jesus’ Female Disciples: Do Christians Have to Rethink Their Faith? All study and worship materials will be provided—no book purchase is necessary.
We look forward to learning, reflecting, and worshiping alongside you.
Blessing of the Animals
Sunday, October 5 - All Services
Join us for our annual Blessing of the Animals in honor of The Feast Day of Saint Francis of Assisi! Animals are welcome to attend any of our three services. The pet blessings will take place immediately after each service in the courtyard. Bring your furry, feathered, or scaly friends for a special blessing.
There will be a designated pet-free area at both services. Some outdoor seating may be available, weather permitting. If your pet has passed over the rainbow bridge, you may bring a photo for our remembrance table.
Be prepared for a noisy day!
Outreach Opportunities
October, November & December Giving Opportunities
This giving season, Saint Matthew’s invites you to share the joy of the holidays with those in our community. Our Outreach Committee has three special opportunities to give: in October, we’ll collect Thanksgiving meal items for Matthew’s Crossing to provide holiday dinners for families in need; in November, we’ll gather gift cards for Helen’s Hope Chest so teens in foster care feel remembered and celebrated at Christmas; and on the first two Sundays of Advent, we’ll collect new, unwrapped toys to bring laughter, love, and hope to children facing life-threatening medical challenges. Monetary donations are always welcome to support these efforts, and physical items can be brought to our Narthex while each drive is active. Let’s come together to brighten the season for those who need it most.
Study & Worship Series: A Women’s Lectionary for the Whole Church
Wednesday, October 1, 10:00–11:30 AM
You’re invited to a special three-part study and worship series engaging with Dr. Wilda Gafney’s A Women’s Lectionary for the Whole Church, Year C. Each gathering will offer a unique opportunity to explore scripture, reflect together, and share in worship. You are welcome to attend one, two, or all three sessions—no registration is required.
To accommodate a variety of schedules, we’re offering the following times to gather:
Saturday, September 20, 10:00–11:30 AM
Wednesday, October 1, 10:00–11:30 AM
Wednesday, October 8, 2:00–3:30 PM
All sessions will take place in the Parish Hall, with light refreshments available before we begin. In preparation for our first gathering, you are encouraged (though not required) to watch the 45-minute documentary Jesus’ Female Disciples: Do Christians Have to Rethink Their Faith? All study and worship materials will be provided—no book purchase is necessary.
We look forward to learning, reflecting, and worshiping alongside you.
Newcomer Coffee
Sunday, September 28, 10:15 AM – The Living Room, C3
Are you new—or feeling new—to Saint Matthew’s? Join us for Newcomer Coffee on Sunday, September 28, from 10:15 to 11:00 AM in the Living Room (near the south side of the parking lot). This is a casual opportunity to meet ministry leaders, ask questions, and learn more about how to get involved. Grab a cup of coffee and enjoy light refreshments—we look forward to meeting you!
Campus Cleanup Day
Saturday, September 27, 8:00–11:00 AM
Roll up your sleeves and join us as we give Saint Matthew’s campus a little extra care! We’ll be sprucing up the courtyard, classrooms, and parish hall with tasks ranging from window cleaning to bush pruning. There’s a job for every age and skill level, so bring your energy (and maybe a pair of gloves) and help us keep our church home welcoming and beautiful.
The Feast Day of St. Matthew
Sunday, September 21 - All Services
Join us in celebration of the Feast Day of St. Matthew by wearing red! St. Matthew, for whom our church is named, was a tax collector before being called by Jesus to follow Him. Often depicted in Christian art with a tax collector's booth or a pen and book, Matthew is recognized as the author of the Gospel of Matthew and provides a detailed account of Jesus’ life, teachings, death, and resurrection, emphasizing His role as the Messiah. As the patron saint of tax collectors, accountants, and bankers, Saint Matthew’s feast day is a time to reflect on his contributions to the early Christian community. How can we follow Jesus? Consider putting your time and talent to work with a ministry at Saint Matthew’s. Meet someone new at coffee hour, sign up to read, explore a study group you haven’t attended, or start your own group if you don’t find a topic or time that suits you. Rejoice in the Holy Spirit and follow your calling!
Study & Worship Series: A Women’s Lectionary for the Whole Church
Saturday, September 20, 10:00–11:30 AM
You’re invited to a special three-part study and worship series engaging with Dr. Wilda Gafney’s A Women’s Lectionary for the Whole Church, Year C. Each gathering will offer a unique opportunity to explore scripture, reflect together, and share in worship. You are welcome to attend one, two, or all three sessions—no registration is required.
To accommodate a variety of schedules, we’re offering the following times to gather:
Saturday, September 20, 10:00–11:30 AM
Wednesday, October 1, 10:00–11:30 AM
Wednesday, October 8, 2:00–3:30 PM
All sessions will take place in the Parish Hall, with light refreshments available before we begin. In preparation for our first gathering, you are encouraged (though not required) to watch the 45-minute documentary Jesus’ Female Disciples: Do Christians Have to Rethink Their Faith? All study and worship materials will be provided—no book purchase is necessary.
We look forward to learning, reflecting, and worshiping alongside you.
Deepening Community at Saint Matthew’s
Sunday, September 14, 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, September 14, from 10:15 to 10:55 AM. Contact Larry Dumka to join this or a future session.