An introduction from our new Rector, the Rev. Dr. Matthew R. Scott .

October 25, 2024

Dear friends in Christ,

On behalf of the Vestry of St. Paul’s and the Rt. Rev. Thomas James Brown, tenth Bishop of Maine, we are delighted to announce that the Rev. Dr. Matthew R. Scott has accepted our call to be St. Paul’s next Rector.

Thanks to the diligence and care of our Discernment Committee, St. Paul’s received applications from a pool of strong candidates. After screening, online conversations, and a visit to Brunswick by the finalists, it became clear to the committee, wardens, Vestry, and clergy that Matthew will be a gifted and energetic partner in our many ministries, and a faithful guide for our future journeys with God and one another, as we continue to “seek and serve Christ in all people.” Matthew has kindly provided a short video greeting for all of us, that you can view [here].

Matthew will share vision, creativity, broad experience, and – a special joy to many – accomplished musical skills with us. His spouse, Nancy, is a Registered Nurse, currently working in hospice care, with interest and experience in other medical fields. Their children, Sam and Benjamin, are, respectively, a second-year college student and a high school senior.

The Scotts will join us from northwestern Pennsylvania. There, Matthew has served two historically related parishes, Trinity Memorial in Warren and St. Francis in Youngsville, guiding them through a period of significant change and consolidation. He holds M. Div. and D. Min. degrees from Virginia Theological Seminary, and two Bachelor’s degrees from the University of Connecticut: one in Music Education and the other in Vocal Performance. (He’s a tenor.)

Before experiencing a call to ordained ministry, Matthew taught music in public schools. He’s also served as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves and National Guard. He and Nancy are originally from Connecticut, and have friends and family throughout New England, including Maine. They are both very enthusiastic about returning to this corner of the country.

Matthew’s first Sunday with us will be January 12, 2025. In the weeks to come, look for further announcements of plans to welcome him and his family. In closing, we’d like to share Matthew’s “Ministry Statement” with you:

“As an adult convert to Christianity, I bring a passion for respecting the journey of each soul. I sense God calling me in priestly service, through blessing others from the riches of Christ’s grace, lifting up our voices in celebration, drawing people together into community, and learning to walk humbly before our God.”

Those of us who’ve already met Matthew have felt the joy and enthusiasm he brings to his work; we look forward to sharing that joy with all of you!

Faithfully,

Deborah L. Goodwin, warden                                                   Patsy Oehl, warden