MINISTRIES
Reconciling in Christ
A program of ReconcilingWorks: Lutherans for Full Participation
The Lutheran Reconciling in Christ (RIC) designation is a program within the Lutheran community that welcomes and affirms LGBTQ+ individuals and their full participation in the church. The RIC program specifically focuses on creating inclusive spaces within the Lutheran tradition for LGBTQ+ individuals, promoting acceptance, and advocating for their rights. You can read our RIC Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) here and explore our Learning and Loving Series, an ongoing educational program, here.
Bible Study
Wednesdays at noon
The weekly Bible study group meets on Wednesdays from noon to 1:00 p.m. at the tables in the fellowship hall. The current focus is on the lectionary scriptures for each week. The purpose of the study is to bring the Bible alive to us and to ask additional questions that are not often answered within a one-hour worship service, giving participants the opportunity to ask questions and give comments about what is taught and preached within a worship service.
Music Ministry
Music plays a central and inspiring role in our Sunday Worship services and on special Festival Days, creating a bridge between individuals and God, connecting people with one another, and providing inspiration and encouragement to the congregation. Our musical offerings include congregational singing, the Chancel Choir (a vocal ensemble), and the Bell Choir. In addition to these, we share the gift of music through vocal and instrumental solos, small musical ensembles, special music videos, and through performances on the organ and piano.
Brecht Elementary School
"Home of the Bobcats"
Brecht is one of our neighboring schools and serves some of Manheim Township’s most economically disadvantaged students. St. Matthew partners with Brecht in collecting food for their annual Thanksgiving drive. This drive helps 25-30 families with food.
Community Meal
Food insecurity is a significant issue that impacts numerous individuals in communities across America and at St. Matthew we are dedicated to assisting those who are most in need. Our kitchen crew meets on the third Monday of each month to prepare and pack up a Grab & Go meal to be distributed at Zion Lutheran Church in East Petersburg. The Grab & Go meals are served each Monday of the year from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran at 1905 Broad Street, East Petersburg.
Lydia's Closet
Clothing Bank
More than seven years ago a seed was planted to help families in need within our community obtain clothing for their school-aged children free of charge. St. Matthew supports Lydia’s Closet, a clothing bank housed at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Neffsville, in this joint effort between the Manheim Township Ministerium of Churches and the Manheim Township School District.
Better Bones, Better Balance classes
Tuesdays at 12:00 p.m.
Dr. Tim Kauffman, an internationally recognized physical therapist, teaches a weekly Better Bones, Better Balance class for the community alternating monthly between St. Matthew Lutheran and Grandview Church. The program incorporates exercises specifically designed to enhance balance and potentially improve muscle strength and bone health.
Quilts
St. Matthew members and friends have been faithfully handcrafting knotted quilts for Lutheran World Relief since 2001, and our ongoing commitment has resulted in the creation of over 1,600 quilts. In addition to providing warmth to individuals worldwide during their times of greatest need, these quilts also serve as makeshift tents, durable floor coverings, or even as loving wraps to cradle infants on their mothers’ backs. Each quilt we create conveys a powerful message of hope—reminding those facing adversity that they are not alone. Click here for Quilting Workshops in 2026.
Memorial Garden
St. Matthew Lutheran
The Memorial Garden is a designated landscaped area within the church grounds that is specifically intended for the interment of the cremated remains of St. Matthew members and their families. It offers a serene environment where individuals can find solace, engage in prayer, meditation, and reflect on the memories of their loved ones.
Playground
St. Matthew Lutheran
The neighborhood refers to our playground and open lawn area as “the church park”. All week, community is built and nurtured as our little neighbors enjoy the recreation on the playground and the adults that accompany them enjoy the social time.
Library on the Lawn
St. Matthew Lutheran
Our library on the lawn was a project by a local Girl Scout troop and serves the Grandview community. Feel free to borrow a book, leave one for others to enjoy, or just simply stop by and take a rest on one of our benches – with or without a book! We make an effort to maintain a collection of titles for both children and adults.
Transportation Ministry
As a community that cares deeply for one another, we have a wonderful opportunity to extend our support to those who can no longer drive to worship. If you need a ride or if you are interested in providing transportation to and from worship services once a month, offering a friendly face and warm conversation, and helping create a welcoming and inclusive community, please contact the church! Thank you for considering this opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our members.
Ileje Congregation
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT), founded in 1963, is now the second largest Lutheran denomination in the world and continues to be one of the fastest-growing. St Matthew prays for and financially supports the Ileje congregation, our companion congregation in the Konde Diocese of the ELCT. Pictured is the church in 2016.
