ABOUT US:


 Our community is made up of real people.

Just like you.




The word welcome is written in white on a purple background.

If you identify as non-binary, trans, female or male...

Black, Indigenous, Chicana/o, Latinx, African, European, Asian, Arabic...

never stepped foot in a church, if you practice a different religion. ..

agnostic, atheist, a different brand of Christian, ​or are a lifelong Lutheran...

gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer, questioning or straight​…

single, married, divorced, separated, or partnered...

have, or had, addictions, phobias, regrets, or a criminal record...

own your home, rent, live alone or with family, or are unsheltered...

abled, neuro diverse, or a person of differing abilities...

or hold any other identities..


WE'D LOVE TO MEET YOU WHERE YOU ARE, AS YOU ARE

Thanks for checking us out!

If you’re new here, know this: you don’t need to have everything figured out to belong at St. Matthew’s. We are a loving, justice-focused community where your body matters, your story is important, and there’s a place for you at the table—just as you are.

There are many ways to get connected. Children and youth can grow through fun and meaningful programs. For adults, there are opportunities for small groups, service in the community, Bible study, prayer, retreats, and reflection offer space to build relationships and explore faith. Your gifts and perspectives are welcomed here, celebrated actually! We are thrilled to meet you soon! 

FAQs

  • What should I wear?

    Feel free to dress up, or keep it casual - everyone is welcome to wear what is comfortable for them. FYI: When the Seahawks play, some of the band members wear a jersey. 


    Years ago someone said it best: "St. Matthew's does not care about the knot in your tie, they care about the knot in your chest." Come and experience God's grace. 

  • How long is worship?

    Each worship service is about an hour long, including a sermon and communion.   

  • Are my kids welcome in worship?

    Absolutely! Kids of all ages are welcome at all worship services. Ask an usher for kid's activity bags. The bags have age appropriate activities that keep children engaged during the service. There are also two designated spaces - Kid's Corners - in the sanctuary for children. At the 10 AM worship, children are invited forward for a special children's message and can then attend a 20-25 minunte Kid's Church during the sermon. 

  • What if I am not Lutheran?

    Everyone is welcome to worship at St. Matthew's. We have many members who have come from different denominations and backgrounds. You do not have to leave behind your spiritual roots to connect to the community. 

  • Is there a nursery?

    Yes! We offer free nursery care for kids ages 0–3 during the 10 AM worship service. Our two wonderful nursery attendants are trained, paid, and ready to provide kind, attentive care while you enjoy the service.

  • It has been a while since I have been to church. Will I have to stand up and introduce myself as a visitor?

    No, you will not be singled out as a visitor. Our community is rooted in trauma-informed spirituality, where you are welcome to come and worship when you feel ready. If you'd like to meet others, feel free to stop by the welcome table or introduce yourself to a pastor or staff member. No pressure, just presence.

  • One of my loved ones has passed away. What do I do?

    We are so sorry for your loss. Please contact the church office, 415-226-2420 or email us at connect@stmatthewsrenton.org. Pastor Rachel or Pastor Kacey will reach out to you to coordinate any pastoral care, funeral services or gatherings that would celebrate the life of your loved one. 

    Email us

Our Team

A white woman with shoulder length brown hair is smiling for the camera while wearing a black shirt and a necklace.

Kacey Hahn

 (she/her)

Pastor

A Filipina woman with shoulder length brown hair in a white shirt and green stole.

Rachel San Diego

(she/her)

Pastor

A young man in a blue jacket is smiling for the camera.

Mark Bedsaul

(he/him)

Interim Director

Children, Youth & Family Ministries

A woman with white hair and a red shirt is smiling for the camera.

Libby Lucier

(she/her)

Care and Connection Coordinator

A man wearing glasses and a hoodie is standing in front of a rainbow wall.

Carter Torgeson

(he/him)

Music and Media Curator

A man in a black shirt is smiling for the camera.

TJ Johnston

(he/him)

Facility Manager

A Black woman with gray hair is smiling and wearing a black jacket.

Angel Swanson

(she/her)

Wedding and Funeral Coordinator

An Asian woman in a white jacket is smiling for the camera.

Jaemee Kim 

(she/her)

Accompanist

A  Latina woman in a blue floral shirt is smiling for the camera.

Aidé Gutierrez

(she/her)

Summer Lunch Coordinator

A blond woman with purple stripe in her hair and a tattoo on her arm is giving a thumbs up.

Andrea Simpson

(she/her)

Webmaster

A woman wearing sunglasses and a purple jacket is smiling for the camera.

Jill Larson

(she/her)

Bookkeeper


Council

Coming soon!


Reconciling In Christ

LUTHERANS FOR FULL PARTICIPATION


Since 1974, ReconcilingWorks: Lutherans for Full Participation
has advocated for the full welcome, inclusion, and equity of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual/aromantic (LGBTQIA+) Lutherans in all aspects of the life of their Church, congregations, and community. 


ReconcilingWorks advocates for the acceptance, full participation, and liberation of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions within the Lutheran Church.


We keep expanding the welcome, liberating those who are forced to live in the margins. To keep dismantling barriers and building bridges. To keep working until all of God's beloved have equity.


We believe that God values and embraces each person as a beloved child, that the Spirit gives a diversity of gifts for the common good, and that Jesus Christ calls us to work for justice.

Learn More


YOU'LL FIND OUR VALUES AND PRACTICES   IN ACTION

As a community, we align to these values and actively commit to them in practice.


Accessibility at

Our Church


Parking lot has handicapped parking spots by walkway to door.



Curb ramps and smooth paths lead to the doors.

Doors are wide enough to easily accommodate wheelchairs.



Floors are flat, no rugs or mats in walkway.

Hallways and aisles are wide enough for wheelchairs.



Bathrooms have a button to open the door.

Each bathroom has one large stall with grab bars for support.


Large print bulletin available with advance notice.



We have a very effective heating and cooling system.

Community Partners