Pastor Matt (he/him) serves as the pastor of St. Luke Lutheran Church, bringing a deep love for Jesus, a commitment to justice, and a belief that the church is at its best when it’s open, bold, and welcoming.
A native Atlantan, Pastor Matt’s journey in faith and education took him across the country before leading him back home. He studied philosophy and religious studies at Georgia State University and completed his Master of Divinity at Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary, with additional studies at The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia.
Before being called to St. Luke, Pastor Matt served as Dean of the Chapel and Assistant to the President at Wartburg Theological Seminary in Iowa, helping shape future pastors and leaders. His ministry has taken many forms—he’s been a theologian in residence, a seminary dean, an admissions director, and a mentor to young theologians. His work is always centered on one thing: helping people embrace their call to live out their faith in the world.
Pastor Matt’s leadership extends beyond St. Luke. He serves as Chair of the Board for Grace House Campus Ministry at Georgia Tech and as President of the Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Board, where he helps create spaces of belonging and renewal. He also advises the Board of Seafarers International House in New York City, advocating for those who work at sea and in the port cities of the world.
Since entering public ministry in 2008, Pastor Matt has been passionate about helping people embrace a faith that is both deeply rooted and outwardly engaged. His work is grounded in the belief that the Gospel calls us to love boldly, stand with the marginalized, and create communities where all belong.
He and his husband, Jay, are thrilled to be part of St. Luke and look forward to continuing the church’s legacy of faith, love, and justice in action.
