Are you looking for a place to connect, grow, and share life with others? Join us for a special LifeGroup Dinner and Info Night on Sunday, January 12, at 5:00pm.

Enjoy a delicious meal while discovering how LifeGroups can help you dive deeper and build meaningful connections. Whether you have time to meet monthly, bi-weekly, or weekly, there’s a group for you!

Meet group leaders, ask questions, and find a LifeGroup that fits your schedule and season of life. We’d love to see you there! 🌿 

📍 Location: Saint Matthew Fellowship Hall
📅 Date & Time: Sunday, January 12, at 5:00pm

Childcare available!

Your child is ready for their very own bible, and we have the perfect opportunity to support this occasion. The 4th Grade Bible Milestone provides a public chance for us, as a larger church, to celebrate what the Lord has done for the children of Saint Matthew through our kids’ ministry in the past 3-4 years. By 4th Grade, children have at least heard of the bible, and already have a foundation built, on which they can now begin building a strong house that will last a lifetime. This milestone class gives us a chance to celebrate that foundation, empower parents to guide their children forward as they transition to a new developmental phase (physically and spiritually), and thank God for His goodness.

For part one, we will share lunch together and then move into an interactive bible class on Sunday, January 12, from 11:30 am to 12:45 pm. This Milestone is open to all 4th graders and for parents and children to attend together. Childcare will be provided for siblings upon request. For part two, Bibles will be presented to the students on Sunday, January 26 at the beginning of 10:00 worship. They will then go with their Small Group Leaders to attend their regular Sunday morning class. 

Join us for a cozy evening of fun, laughter, and great company! Bring your family and friends as we enjoy a movie together.

📅 Date: January 11, 2025
⏰ Time: 6:00 PM (Doors open at 5:45)
📍 Location: Saint Matthew Teen Center
🎥 Movie: Spellbound

Fresh hot popcorn and drinks will be provided, but feel free to bring your own favorite treats! Don't forget your favorite cozy blanket, too. Everyone is welcome—come and make it a night to remember!

We can’t wait to see you there! 🎬✨ No need to RSVP, just show up!

Navigating tough conversations with family and loved ones is never easy, especially when it comes to sensitive topics like aging, health, finances, and future planning. In this empowering seminar, we’ll provide tools, strategies, and insights to help seniors and their families address “the elephant in the room” with compassion and clarity.

Our speaker for this event is Dr. Allyson Mayo of Behavioral Fitness Walnut Creek:
https://www.behavioralfitnesstoday.com/

This even is sponsored by Amber Hom, Seniors Real Estate Specialist of Realm Realty:
https://realmregroup.com/

This is a free event, a light lunch will be provided.

Tuesday, December 24th at 3, 5, & 7pm, Worship Center

Join us as we gather for a candlelight Christmas Eve service featuring readings from the Christmas story and Christmas carols. A beautiful night to celebrate Emmanuel, Christ with us.

We will have childcare for kids under five available in the nursery at all services except 10am. Activity bags will be provided for all kids to help them engage in family worship at the later services.

Tuesday, December 24th at 10am, Worship Center

This is a service specifically built for families! Imagine the Christmas pageants of your childhood but without the rehearsals. Little ones can be animals, shepherds, wisemen, angels, Mary, or Joseph. We have all the costumes you’ll need, or bring your own costume! All costumes are welcome (Yes, even Spiderman, dinosaurs, or unicorns can be a part of the nativity!). We will tell the story of Christmas and invite your child to join us on stage. This is a one-of-a-kind experiential family service.

Saturday, December 21st at 7pm, Worship Center

The service for the “Darkest Night” is a time of sharing in hope. We sing, we listen, we light candles, and we share in silent meditation and reflection. We pray for a world of peace.

Please join us as we see the light of Christ break into the darkness.

If you have any questions or want more information, please get in touch with Tami Gomez at tamig@saintmatthew.org.

Wednesday, December 18th at 7:30pm, Teen Center

Middle and High School students are invited to join us in the Teen Center for a fun night of treats, hot chocolate, and a Christmas movie! Overly festive attire is strongly encouraged.

For more info, contact Jason Slagle, Youth Pastor: jasons@saintmatthew.org or (925) 932-1955 x117.

Sunday, December 15th at 5pm, Worship Center

Join us for our annual Christmas concert featuring our amazing worship team and special musical guests. Come Rock the Manger with friends and family as we celebrate Christmas through singing upbeat holiday favorites. This is not a silent night, but instead a great party to welcome the celebration of Christmas. Bring your neighbors! Children and families welcome!

If you have any questions, contact the church office at info@saintmatthew.org.

Calling all Saint Matthew Young Adults! 

Join us for a Christmas party on December 15th at 2:00 PM. We will gather for fellowship, food, drinks, games, and a white elephant gift exchange. We can't wait to celebrate the season together!

Please RSVP to Billy at billyr@saintmatthew.org for more information and location details. 

Kids, send your parents out for the night, wear your coziest Christmas PJs, and join us in the Teen Center for a special Christmas-themed Kids’ Night Out! Dinner, games, Christmas-themed crafts, a Christmas movie, snacks, and fun with friends! Kids' Night Out is a community event open to all kids aged 1-11!

This event will be held on Saturday, December 14th, from 4:30-8pm, in the Teen Center at Saint Matthew (399 Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek). Dinner will be served between 5-5:30pm. 

We don't want cost to be a barrier to attendance, and limited scholarships are available. For more info, contact Sue Burke, Children's Minister, at sueb@saintmatthew.org or phone (925) 932-1955 x120.

Sign-ups are now full.

Mark your calendars for a festive night to remember—3rd Gen Hometown Christmas on Friday, December 13, at 5:30 PM in the Fellowship Hall!

We’ll celebrate the Christmas traditions and memories we grew up with by enjoying a holiday feast together. Roasted turkey and gravy will be provided, and we’re asking everyone to bring their favorite holiday side dish or dessert to share.

Come dressed in your favorite Christmas sweater (ugly or not!) and enjoy Christmas classics as we reminisce about our favorite holiday moments. It’s going to be a night filled with joy, delicious food, and cherished memories.

We can’t wait to celebrate with you—save the date, and join us for a heartwarming start to the holiday season!

Sign-ups are now full.

Mark your calendars and save the date for a magical morning! Join us on December 7th for our annual Breakfast & Crafts with Santa event. Bring the whole family to enjoy delicious treats, create festive Christmas crafts, and capture a special moment with Santa himself—pictures are on us! It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season and make cherished memories together. Don’t miss out on this festive tradition!

There is no need to RSVP; just show up!

For more info, please contact Sue Burke at sueb@saintmatthew.org.

Self-care is a powerful tool that can enhance your quality of life and help you thrive in your senior years. In this seminar, we’ll explore the different facets of self-care, including physical wellness, mental health, and social engagement. Discover how small changes can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to boost your energy, improve your mood, or find more joy in daily activities, close the year by giving yourself the gift of self-love and care.

Our speaker for this event is Christine Sevier, Senior Living Advisor at Creating New Hope
https://creatingnewhope.org/

This is a free event, a light lunch will be provided.

Wednesday, November 20th at 7:30pm, Teen Center

6th-12th graders! We’re excited to host a Friendsgiving celebration, and YOU are invited to join us for an evening of food, fun, and gratitude! Gather with friends, share a meal, and reflect on all that we’re thankful for together. Bring your friends along – the more, the merrier!

For more information, please contact Jason Slagle at jasons@sainmatthew.org.

Save the date! Sign-ups will open soon!

Kids, get ready for an evening packed with excitement! Join us in the Teen Center for a fun-filled night of dinner,  games, crafts, a movie, snacks, and making new friends! Kids' Night Out is a community event that promises a lot of fun for all kids aged 1-11!

This event will be held on Saturday, November 16th, from 4:30-8pm, in the Teen Center at Saint Matthew (399 Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek). Dinner will be served between 5-5:30pm. 

The cost for the evening is $35 per child /$55 per family, and pre-registration is required. We are not able to take walk-up registrations.

We don't want cost to be a barrier to attendance, and limited scholarships are available. For more info, contact Sue Burke, Children's Minister, at sueb@saintmatthew.org or phone (925) 932-1955 x120.

If you are new or have questions about Saint Matthew & our mission, we would love for you to join us for a relaxed dinner full of conversation & many opportunities to ask questions.

In addition, we will share ways to get involved & connected and use your gifts & abilities to make an impact in the neighborhood.

Learn the steps of preparing your home for sale, understanding the current real estate market, and making informed decisions that align with your lifestyle and goals:

• Benefits of downsizing, both emotionally and physically

• Preparing your home for sale, such as staging and simple updates

• Today’s Real Estate Market, current trends and how to make the most of your property sale in today’s market.

• Explore resources and services available to assist with the downsizing process, including professional organizers, estate sale companies, and real estate agents specializing in senior transitions.

Our speaker for this event is Mark Shaw, Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
https://markshawrealtor.com/

This is a free event, a light lunch will be provided.

Event sponsored by Andriana Mendez of Custom Moving & Hauling:
https://custommovehaul.com/

We're here for the boos. 👻 Invite all your favorite guys and ghouls to our annual Trunk or Treat and Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 26, from 4-6 pm. With food, goodies for the grown-ups, and trunk-or-treating and bounce houses for the littles, this event is for everyone! It's free, and all are welcome!

For more info, please contact Sue Burke at sueb@saintmatthew.org.

Third Gen Women’s Wreath-Making Get-Together!

Ladies, it’s time to get creative! Join us for a relaxing afternoon of wreath-making. We’ll provide the basic supplies to get your wreath started, but feel free to bring any extra ribbons, decorations, or items that will make your creation uniquely yours. It's a wonderful way to spend time with friends while making something beautiful for your home!

Space is limited, so make sure to sign up soon to secure your spot!

Details:

• When: Thursday, October 24, 2024 | 2:00 PM

• Where: SMLC Fellowship Hall

• Cost: $20 for wreath-making supplies (non-refundable)

Questions? Email Karen Ball at mkball285@att.net or Pat Fabsits at wamozartpat@yahoo.com

Calling All Third Gen Guys! Bocce with Pastor Tim!

Looking for a fun way to spend your Thursday morning? Come join Pastor Tim for an exciting time playing bocce in downtown Clayton! Whether you're a seasoned player or totally new to the game, don't worry—it’s easy to pick up and guaranteed to be a good time!

Meet us at the bocce courts next to Skipolini’s, and feel free to bring your favorite refreshments and snacks to share. After the game, we’ll head over to Ed’s Mudville Grill for a cold beer and some lunch (no host). It’s the perfect way to spend a fall day with good company!

Be sure to sign up early as we only have 20 spaces available!

Details:

• When: Thursday, October 24, 2024 | 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

• Where: Bocce courts in downtown Clayton, next to Skipolini’s

• Cost: $10 per person (non-refundable)

Questions? Reach out to Konie Collins at klcollins7@yahoo.com

Our speaker this month will provide valuable insights and practical strategies to help seniors and their families navigate financial uncertainties with confidence. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain peace of mind and secure a stable financial future. We will address:

• What happens if I have to care for a spouse?

• Will my family be secure if something happens to me?

• How do I create a legacy for my children?

• What will my survivors need to know?

• How do I do a better job at budgeting?

Our speaker for this event is Yvonne Ceresa, Certified Financial Planner® at Edward Jones

This is a free event, a light lunch will be provided.
Event sponsored by Carly Powell of Mutual of Omaha:
https://mutualreverse.com/lo/carly-powell/

Please join us on Sunday evening, September 29, 2024, as we celebrate the ordination of Michael Basil. The service will begin at 4:00 PM at Saint Matthew Lutheran Church, 399 Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek, CA 94598.

This is a special moment that reflects years of dedication, study, and deep commitment to serving God’s people. We would be honored to have you with us to share in the joy and hard work that marks this occasion.

A reception will follow the service, where we can continue the celebration together.

Come, share in this sacred moment, and let us rejoice in all that God is doing through Michael’s ministry.

We look forward to seeing you there!

"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. This is my command: Love each other."

—John 15:16-17

This is a single-session milestone for 1st graders and parent(s)/guardians to attend together.

The 1st Grade Prayer Milestone will be a time when parents/guardians and their 1st graders will come together with other families to share lunch and learn how to incorporate prayer into daily life. Prayer is the power that knits together the relationship with God and with the family of God. It is the foundation of a life centered in Christ. The Prayer Milestone presents a good way for the congregation to keep its promise to equip parents to pass on Christian faith. This milestone brings kids, parents and other adults together to encourage them to pass on faith through the practice of prayer. Lunch for families and childcare for siblings will be provided, and friends are welcome!

When: Sunday, September 29, 2024 11:30 am - 12:30 pm
Where:  Saint Matthew Lutheran Church Teen Center
Cost: $25 per family.  Lunch will be provided!

Questions: Please contact Sue Burke at sueb@saintmatthew.org

Sign-ups for this date are now closed.

Kids, get ready for an evening packed with excitement! Join us in the Teen Center for a fun-filled night of dinner,  games, crafts, a movie, snacks, and making new friends! Kids' Night Out is a community event that promises a lot of fun for all kids aged 1-11!

This event will be held on Saturday, September 28th, from 4:30-8pm, in the Teen Center at Saint Matthew (399 Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek). Dinner will be served between 5-5:30pm. 

The cost for the evening is $35 per child /$55 per family, and pre-registration is required. We are not able to take walk-up registrations.

We don't want cost to be a barrier to attendance, and limited scholarships are available. For more info, contact Sue Burke, Children's Minister, at sueb@saintmatthew.org or phone (925) 932-1955 x120.

Join Pastor Tim for an engaging conversation about what spirituality looks like in the third third of our lives. What is different about this season than others? What are the marks of healthy spirituality? What are the resources to support us on this journey? Join us as we explore these questions.

We will gather for a light lunch in the Fellowship Hall at 11:30 (after worship) followed by Tim's presentation and conversation. You should be on your way by 1 pm.

Please sign up by clicking below so that we can make sure that there is food for everyone who would like to attend.

Whether you are new to Saint Matthew or have attended our gatherings a few times, we encourage you to join us for our Who is Saint Matthew Lunch on Sunday, September 15th at 11:30am!

Maybe you are curious to know more about our mission, vision, and history, and meet our staff. If you'd like to connect further with our community, this is the place to be! It’s a relaxed and informative event designed to give you a taste of who we are as a church. We invite you to come, enjoy a free meal, get to know us, and give us an opportunity to know you too. 

Hey, 3rd Gen friends! Let’s celebrate the start of the church year with a venture in tastes featuring hors d 'oeuvres and desserts from the four corners of the world. Tapas, chips and guac, brie on a baguette, hummus with veggies, or a fabulous crème brulee—let your imagination run wild. Get out the cookbooks and find a recipe to share with your friends. Then grab your favorite beverage, and let’s nosh around the world together.  

Please bring a beverage and an appetizer to share.

If you have any questions, please contact Karen Ball at mkball285@att.net or 925-285-8259.

Fraud and scams come in many forms these days, learn how to stay on your toes and what to look out for! The latest in what scammers are using to lure vulnerable and what you can do about it.

Our speaker for this event is Barbara Porter with Choice in Aging:
www.choiceinaging.org/

This is a free event, a light lunch will be provided.
Event sponsored by Lorna Van Ackeren, Certified Geriatric Care Manager of Aging Care Concierge:
https://www.agingcareconcierge.net/