As a parish, we have walked that same path. We lost so much, and we lost it so quickly. But I want to tell you today that this year has not been defined solely by devastation. Instead, it has been defined by the light that emerges from the shadows. I want to share my thoughts on this journey—not just to recount the events, but to celebrate the amazing things we have achieved together because we chose to be there for one another.
Our journey began at St. Augustine’s. That first Sunday was a sacred moment of connection—a gathering of shared grief, but more importantly, shared hope. The St. A’s community greeted us with the kind of deep love that heals. We owe a debt of gratitude to that special group of Christians who reached out with a hug exactly when we needed it most.
From those early days, we witnessed the very best of St. Matthew’s:
* Despite losing their own physical possessions, our clergy responded with a selflessness that moved us all. They shared their love of God with all of us; and they organized St. A’s services including the amazing outdoor Sunday worship “St. Matthew’s style,” reminding us that the church is not just a building, but a people united in God’s love.
* Operating without offices, equipment, or even a home base, our church staff worked behind the scenes to ensure the business of the church never faltered.
* You, the congregation, stepped up without a moment’s hesitation. Through the Fire Pastoral Fund, you provided immediate relief to those in need. I want to extend a special thank you to the Montgomery family, whose initial generosity ignited this wave of support.
* Our school and ministries showed us what it means to be resilient. Within hours of the fire, Alley Michaelson, our Head of School, along with the Board of Trustees and so many others, began the monumental task of relocation. Their focus paid off: within weeks, our students were back together at the Water Garden in Santa Monica ensuring academic programming continued nearly uninterrupted.
That same spirit of "getting back to work" echoed through our other cherished ministries:
* The Music Guild hosted concerts at St. A’s.
* The compassion team, led by Lizzy Tooke Moore and David Landau, ensured that no member of this parish felt isolated through their telephone outreach campaign.
* Day Camp relocated and delivered another memorable summer for so many.
* Scouts of 223 found new spaces to gather, culminating in a beautiful Eagle Scout ceremony right here last November.
* Christmas Faire continued its mission of service hosting a moving and memorable holiday event.
Those are just a few examples of our community jumping in to support each other.
While we were scattered, the Return to Bienveneda Team, led brilliantly by Terry Bird and supported by Lawry Meister, Mary Ellen Kanoff, and Bill and Will McGregor, worked tirelessly to bring us back. They navigated insurance, managed cross-campus remediation, and planned the future with a vision on making our beautiful grounds better than ever. They didn't just secure a site; they secured our home. To everyone involved: we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
As we moved forward, we were met with the gut-wrenching news of Bruce’s illness and retirement. It felt like another test, another heartbreak. Yet, in every conversation since his diagnosis, Bruce has displayed a grace and selflessness that is profoundly inspiring.
In his deeply personal departure sermon, he spoke of the two-way impact of faith and community. He has shown us God’s love in action, setting an example for all of us to follow. As we look ahead, it doesn’t matter if we face obstacles or unexpected turns in the road; we have each other. And with the spirit and love of God, that makes us unstoppable.
It has been a great honor to work with the Vestry and the countless volunteers who have given so much. I am humbled by the gifts—of time, treasure, and spirit—that have brought us back to this place, together, for our annual meeting. I would also like to recognize Mike Freehling, our treasurer, who has been critical to St. Matthew’s as we have navigated our finances over this trying year.
Thank you, and God bless you all.
I want to turn to new business with some exciting news. Regarding our new Priest-in-Charge, a candidate has now been selected by the diocese and final details are being ironed out. An official announcement and start date will be made in the next few weeks. We are thrilled and know this person will be welcomed by all of us.
Next, we want to thank the four outgoing vestry members for their service and dedication to St. Mathews over the years. Fred Ufkis, Dave Higley, Lawry Meister – thank you so much. We also want to thank Pam Scheidler who recently moved away, but also served on the Vestry with dedication.
Finally, we take the time at the Annual Meeting to formally vote on our new Vestry members. We have an outstanding group of nominees who will join the group: Cameron Brown, Daniella Winters, Joan Sumpter, and Catherine Carrick. Please welcome them, along with 2025 Junior Warden, Heather Jones, who will now become the 2026 Senior Warden.
This formidable team is ready for the year ahead, which I’m certain will result in many positive steps forward for the Parish of St. Matthew. Thank you all for your own role in our wonderful community.
Darren Seidel
2025 Senior Warden
