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WELCOME TO ST. MATTHEW’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
a historic church rooted in the Episcopal tradition, shares the love of Christ, putting faith into action through worship, prayer and outreach in the downtown community and beyond.
We invite you to join us for Mass IN PERSON and live on Facebook
Join us at 7:30am and 11:00am every Sunday
Bishop Message: A Call to Stand for Mercy, Truth, and Human Dignity
Dear People of the Diocese of Wisconsin,
I am generally wary of formally commenting as a bishop on contemporary events, particularly when they are politically charged. However, given recent events in our neighboring Diocese of Minnesota and across the USA, it would be unfaithful for me to be silent.
On Saturday, Alex Pretti was killed in Minneapolis by federal border patrol agents. Earlier this month, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents opened fire on Renee Good, killing her. Last October, a Border Patrol agent shot and injured a US citizen, Marty Martinez. All three of these people were U. S. Citizens. We have also seen images of an elderly U. S. citizen wrongfully taken from his home, barely clothed, in freezing weather. Other questionable and outrageous tactics have been used against citizens and non-citizens alike. This is unacceptable.
There is a debate to be had about border policy, immigration policy, welcoming refugees, and related matters, and it has been going on for years. Faithful Christians of goodwill have disagreed about what the best policies might be, and members of the Diocese of Wisconsin are not all of one mind on this.
Every president of every party in recent decades has deported people who have come to this country outside the usual legal processes or who have committed serious crimes while here. There is nothing inherently wrong with that. Nations need to regulate their borders and enforce their laws – reasonably, compassionately, with due process and discretion.
Members of the Diocese of Wisconsin value the law and law enforcement. We pray for them. Some of them are members of our parishes. Many of our clergy serve as chaplains to their local police departments. But this is different. While other presidents have deported large numbers of people, no other administration – Democrat or Republican – has turned ICE, along with Customs and Border Protection, into a masked, heavily armed, paramilitary police force patrolling city streets. This would not be good even if they were better vetted and better trained. It is contrary to the spirit of a democratic republic. Their posture is often aggressive and provocative. Local law enforcement in Minnesota, Maine, and elsewhere has been critical of the unprofessional and overly aggressive tactics ICE and Border Patrol agents have employed. Those tactics have proven deadly.
Something else is different. No previous president or government official – Democrat or Republican – has used the dehumanizing rhetoric we have heard from our current leadership. Immigrants – people we believe to be created in the image of God – have been called “vermin,” “scum,” and ‘garbage” who are “poisoning our blood.” They have been declared rapists, sex-traffickers, and gangsters, though we know that the vast majority of immigrants, regardless of how they got here, are none of these. They are simply desirous of security and opportunity for themselves and their families – the same motivations that prompted many of our ancestors to come to this country. Few of them can honestly be characterized as the “worst of the worst.”
Whatever policies we promote in addressing their presence, promoting those policies by misrepresenting and dehumanizing other human beings is always reprehensible. It creates fear – not just among immigrants, but citizens of color. Such rhetoric calls into question the assertion that this is just about enforcing the law, and it is connected to the harsh, sometimes callous tactics we have seen. It must be condemned and rejected by followers of Jesus who warned us that speaking of others with disdain is related to murder and is damnable (Matthew 5:21-22).
We know these people. Having them spoken of with disdain is offensive. Some of them are members of our congregations. Some are our neighbors. Others are people our congregations minister to – through Episcopal Migration Ministries, World Relief, or through one of our many feeding, clothing, and housing ministries. They are the very ones Jesus explicitly commanded us to care for. Episcopalians in Wisconsin will continue to care for the needy and vulnerable. We will advocate for them. In some circumstances, we might be called upon to protect them.
At our diocesan convention last October, I said we are called to be lightning on the horizon. As Christians, we have no choice but to stand with the poor and the vulnerable, to stand for mercy and compassion, for peace against violence, for truth against falsehood. We must do so with humility, ready to repent when we get things wrong and hold ourselves accountable. Not everyone is called to do the same thing. But I call on you to do something.
- Pray.
- Join peaceful demonstrations in your communities. Do it boldly – but in the way of Jesus – peacefully, with love toward those whose actions you are protesting.
- Consider donating to World Relief or ministries in your community that offer aid to those in need.
- Contact your legislators.
- If you disagree with what I have written here, I still urge you to pray.
Remember that we are resurrection people who trust that God is indeed working all things for good. Truth and love will prevail in the end because our Lord is Truth and Love.
Under the Mercy,
The Right Reverend Matthew Gunter
Bishop of Wisconsin
The Episcopal Diocese of Wisconsin
Shared from the Rt. Rev. Matthew Gunter’s blog.
A word from The Rt. Rev. Craig Loya, X Bishop of Minnesota
Beloved in Christ
Matthew’s account of Epiphany, the feast we celebrated yesterday, shows that there are two responses to the manifestation of a poor, helpless, migrant child lying in a feeding trough as the the place where the God of the whole cosmos resides: fear and joy. King Herod meets the news of King Jesus with fear that quickly turns into a murderous rage as he slaughters an untold number of infants to eliminate the threat to his power. The wise men who had been watching the skies for a sign are overwhelmed with joy at the good news that Herod’s campaign of terror through violent force has met the unstoppable power of God’s love.
The Herods of the world, and their fear driven campaigns of terror, are ever with us. Today in Minneapolis, after deploying thousands of federal immigration agents in recent days, an individual was shot and killed by those agents. The news is crushing, to be sure, but we ought not be shocked. The federal government has been making good for a full year on its promise to enforce immigration policy through a racially narrow lens and with a cruel delight. An incident like the one today in Minneapolis was inevitable, and such violence is likely to remain a feature of our common life as long as federal agents are being deployed to cities seen to oppose the current administration for the sole purpose of provocation and intimidation.
As people of the Epiphany, our call is to stand in the midst of a world where Herod continues to flex and posture, not in outrage or with reciprocal violence, but gazing in wonder and expectation for the joyful manifestation of Jesus wherever the poor, the outsider, the weak, and the oppressed are to be found. As people of the Epiphany, in the midst of a world where cruelty tries to pose as power, we continue to rejoice in the assurance that absolute and final power resides in poor and crucified Jesus, who alone is the true king. Our Epiphany joy is not some naive and shallow notion that everything will be ok, when everything is so obviously not ok. Our Epiphany joy is the deep, defiant, revolutionary hope we have in the assurance that love is the most powerful force in the universe. Like the wise ones searching for Bethlehem, we wait, we watch, we follow where love leads, knowing that only God’s action in the world can finally and fully heal all that the lust for a false and hollow power had broken down, world without end.
Shared from the Rt. Rev. Craig Loya’s Facebook page.
2026 Stewardship: Tell Out My Soul
We invite each of you to take a moment to reflect on this year’s stewardship theme,
“Tell Out My Soul.” This powerful phrase calls us not only to recognize the blessings in our own lives, but also to share our stories of faith & gratitude with others. Consider how your individual journey—the challenges you’ve faced, the victories you’ve celebrated, and the moments of grace you’ve experienced—can inspire and uplift those around you. How does your narrative intertwine with the mission of our church? In what ways can your talents, time, and resources serve as a testament to the transformative power of faith in action?
Please download and review this year’s stewardship packet which is designed to guide your reflection on the gifts you can share with our church community. You’ll find copies of both the stewardship packets and pledge cards available in the church.
DOWNLOAD STEWARDSHIP PACKET & PLEDGE FORM
NEW! Sip & Scripture
Sip & Scripture is a NEW faith and fellowship brunch group for the women of St. Matthew’s.
This year we are reading “Women of the BIble” by Ann Spangler & Jean E. Syswerda. Copies are available from the church office for a $10 donation. It’s also available as an ebook and audiobook on Amazon.
Homework: Read the chapters on Hagar and Sarah prior to our meeting.
February 21st at 10:00am at the Marina Gardens on 7th Ave, Kenosha.
NEW! Men of the Way
Men of the Way is a NEW faith and fellowship group for the men of St. Matthew’s.
If you’re interested in joining, or simply learning more, please contact the office at stmatts5900@gmail.com or 262-654-8642.
More information and our first meeting date to be announced soon!
Choir Workshop: Calling All Singers!
Have you thought about joining the choir but never felt the time was right? We have just the event for you!
St. Matthew’s Choir is hosting a Choir Workshop on Saturday, February 14th, from 9am-3pm in the Guild Hall. Lunch will be provided, along with fellowship! This is a great opportunity to join us, as we will be sight-reading music for the upcoming Lent and Easter seasons. We hope you will consider attending.
There is no obligation or need to sign up. Just show up at 9am on the 14th if you are interested!
For more details, contact the parish office at 262-654-8642 or
email stmatts5900@gmail.com
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Sunday Worship, Sundays @ 7:30am
St. Matthew’s Church, 5900 7th Ave, Kenosha
Traditional Sunday service with Holy Eucharist and sermon
Sunday Worship, Sundays @ 11:00am
St. Matthew’s Church, 5900 7th Ave, Kenosha
Traditional Sunday service with Holy Eucharist, music, and sermon
Coffee Hour, Sundays @ 11:00am (after service)
St. Matthew’s Church, 5900 7th Ave, Kenosha
Join us Sundays after 11:00am service for informal spiritual discussion or to simply socialize with friends! We ask for volunteers to help make sure that cookies and coffee are available. Interested in hosting coffee hour? Use the sign-up sheet in the back of the church to volunteer your time and the date(s) available.
Choir Workshop, Saturday, February 14th @ 9:00am-3:00pm
Guild Hall, 5900 7th Ave, Kenosha
St. Matthew’s Choir is hosting a Choir Workshop on Saturday, February 14th, from 9am-3pm in the Guild Hall. Lunch will be provided, along with fellowship! This is a great opportunity to join us, as we will be sight-reading music for the upcoming Lent and Easter seasons. We hope you will consider attending.
Annual Parish Meeting, Sunday, Feb 15th @ 9:00am
Guild Hall, 5900 7th Ave, Kenosha
Our Annual Parish Meeting will take place on February 15th at 9 AM in the Great Hall. This is an important opportunity for all members of our congregation to come together, reflect on the past year, and look forward to the exciting plans ahead for our community.On the agenda is the election of Vestry officers and our delegates for the diocesan convention. We will also review our financial standing, our accomplishments over the past year, and announce this year’s Service Cross Award winners. Snacks and refreshments will be provided.
Woman’s Book Club, Sunday, Feb 15 @ 2:00pm
Our next St. Mathew’s Women’s Book Club will meet on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 2:00pm at the home of Judy Ashley. Judy has chosen the book “The Briar Club” by Kate Quinn.
Please text or call Judy by February 7th and let her know if you can or cannot attend. Remember to bring a small snack to pass; Judy will have beverages and a dessert for everyone to share. Please know that you (and a friend if you would like to bring one) are always welcome if you have read, have not read or not yet finished the book.
Soup Kitchen, Feb 15th @ 4:30pm
Shalom Center, 4314 39th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53144
Help us continue our partnership with the Shalom Center to feed the hungry!
Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper, Tuesday, February 17 @ 5:30pm
Guild Hall, 5900 7th Ave, Kenosha
We’ll have a short ceremony to burn the palms from last Easter at the big red door to the church. Then we’ll meet in the Great Hall for a delicious pancake supper consisting of for pancakes, sausage, and bacon. Beverages will be provided. Please use the sign-up sheet in the back of the church if you’re interested in volunteering to cook, set-up/clean-up, or serve.
Ash Wednesday Imposition of Ashes & Holy Eucharist
Wednesday, Feb 18th @ 7:00am, Noon, and 6:00pm
St. Matthew’s Church, 5900 7th Ave, Kenosha
Join us for Ash Wednesday services
Sip & Scripture – Woman’s Faith & Fellowship Brunch, Feb 21st @ 10:00am
10:00am @ Cafe @ Marina Gardens, 5001 7th Ave
Sip & Scripture is a NEW faith and fellowship group for all women of St. Matthew’s. We are reading “Women of the BIble” by Ann Spangler & Jean E. Syswerda. Copies are available from the church office for a $10 donation. It’s also available as an ebook and audiobook on Amazon.
Homework: Read the chapters on Hagar & Sarah
Bible Study, Mondays, February 23rd @ 6:00pm
Guild Hall, 5900 7th Ave, Kenosha
Join us every Monday at 6pm for Bible study. We are reading Hebrews.
Lenten Reflection & Soup Supper, Wednesdays, February 25th @ 6:30pm
Guild Hall, 5900 7th Ave, Kenosha
Join us every Wednesday at 6:30pm for our Evensong, followed by Lenten Reflection and soup supper in Guild Hall. We will be reading “An Unlikely Lent” by Rachel Billups. Copies are available from the office. Price $10
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PASTORAL CARE COMMITTEE
It’s a New Year, and time for our Pastoral Care committee to renew old acquaintances. If you are not able to attend Sunday services and would like a visit (including Communion) or a phone call, please contact Jennifer at the church office 262-654-8642 or reach out to Pastoral Care committee members Judy Ashley, Guida Brown or Marc Lawrence.
GIVING WALL
Care kits provide essential items for people experiencing homelessness. Things like toiletries, nutritious food, hand warmers, first aid supplies, and clean socks and clothing can help to improve their quality of life and make their daily struggles a little easier.
We need travel-size: Deodorant, Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash, Dental Floss, Mouthwash (alcohol-free), Lotion, Chapstick, Waterproof bags and/or backpacks, and non-perishable food like PB or Cheese Cracker Snacks, Beef Jerky, Trail Mix, or other non-perishable food, and bottled water or Gatorade.
PRAYER SHAWLS & LAP BLANKETS
If you need a prayer shawl for illness, spiritual need, comfort, celebration, or any other reason please call the office at 262-654-8642 to make arrangements. Prayer shawls and blankets are available in the cabinet at the back of the church.
ALTAR FLOWERS
Sign up to sponsor altar flowers in thanksgiving, celebration, or memory of a loved one. Donations of $75.00 are suggested. Use the flower chart in church, or contact the office.
PRAYER REQUESTS
Please contact the office at 262-654-8642 or email to renew your prayer request,
to submit a new prayer request, or to provide updates.
HELPING HANDS
Check the notice board to volunteer for events, help out around the church or office, and/or put your creative skills to use.
ACOLYTE TRAINING
Children age seven and older are welcome to join this ministry. Father Dave will give an overview of acolyte duties and how to conduct themselves at the altar.
Come and seek God’s promise at St. Matthew’s Church. The members of St. Matthew’s Church extend an open invitation and warm welcome to everyone to seek and find the love of Jesus Christ. We would love to walk our Christian journey of being disciples of Jesus with you. We believe St. Matthew’s is a place for you to grow and develop in your faith.
St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church
5900 7th Avenue, Kenosha, WI 53140
Phone: (262) 654-8642 Fax: (262) 605-5526
Email: stmatts5900@gmail.com
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