Join us in welcoming The Very Reverend Father Abbot Matthew Christopher, obf, OCR, to the UACC! He joined us at the General Synod on June 26, 2024.

Originally from Washington State, Fr. Matthew is devoted to the teachings of Jesus Christ, emphasizing universal love. His spiritual journey led him to the Eastern Christian Church, where he was baptized and chrismated in the Antiochian Orthodox Church, embracing a monastic and clerical calling. After a decade-long hiatus from organized religion due to discrimination, he found acceptance in the inclusiveness of the Anglican Communion.

Fr. Matthew pursued theological education, founded Saint Dymphna Orthodox Church, and was ordained to the Diaconate in 2019. Along with Fr. Uriel, he established the Orthodox Community of Saint Brigid in Toledo, Ohio. In 2021, he was honored as Abbot of Mother of God, Our Lady of Unfading Wildflowers Monastery, and the Community of Saint Brigid. His journey reached another milestone in 2024 when he was installed and consecrated as Abbot.

Fr. Matthew has also served on the Board of Directors for the Boy Scouts of America, Order of the Arrow - Local Lodge, and The Episcopal Church. He has been living one day at a time by the Grace of God since October 23, 2012.