A Legacy of Faith: St. Matthew’s Church Through the Years
From its humble beginnings in 1947, St. Matthew’s Church in Moorestown, NJ has grown into a vibrant spiritual home, deeply rooted in its community. Founded by Pastor Shaki and his wife, who saw the need for a Lutheran presence, the church quickly became a strong and recognized institution.
In its earlier days, the church served as the true center of community life, hosting countless parties and celebrations that fostered deep connections among its members. The congregation initially worshipped in a “Little White Church” on Chester Avenue, a building originally owned by the Presbyterians. Purchased for a mere $25,000, this cherished space, while beloved, eventually became too small to accommodate the growing congregation.
This growth spurred the vision for a larger sanctuary. In 1968, under Pastor Jensen, plans for the current building began. Architects Hassenger and Schwam designed a structure rooted in the Greek cross, symbolizing a legacy for the future while echoing the past. The high-pitched roof reaching skyward, with the lower parts representing the worshipping people, embodies a profound architectural and spiritual statement. Dedicated in September 1972, the new church was a testament to the community’s hope and shared effort.
Today, St. Matthew’s continues to thrive, recognized for its authentic worship and warm atmosphere. As one member shared, “church is not the building, it’s the people.” Recent facility upgrades, including accessible bathrooms, reflect the congregation’s commitment to being welcoming and supportive. With a clear mission encapsulated by the tagline “Live the Love,” St. Matthew’s remains a resilient congregation, poised to continue doing great things, trusting that God is always with them.