Vicar (Church leader)
Our vicar, Paul, recently retired in July 2026 so we are currently in a vacancy.
However, church life still carries on as usual as we continue living out our vision to be an inspiring church, a catalyst in the community and a hub for the young!
Luke and Shelley Thompson
Luke is our Assistant Church Leader and Shelley, his wife, is our Worship Pastor. They live in Ferring, loving the local cafes and walks, although the weather isn't quite as warm as Portugal, where they spent ten years planting and leading an international church! Shelley's passion is to encourage the church as a worshipping community where God is encountered. Luke loves sharing God's word, encouraging people to grow in their faith and training emerging leaders.
Beth Hayes -
Ordinand /
Young Women & Families
Beth is training to be a vicar and is also our Young Women’s and Families Worker. Beth is married to Chris, and between them they have three children. They love to travel together, but are never happier than being in nature, whether near or far.
Beth has worked for many years in various roles supporting women, families and children through the ups and downs of life. Her heart is to see our community flourish and for the love of Christ to be at the centre.
Nathan Ghinn -
Youth and Children’s Work Leader
Nathan has joined us in Nov 2024 and has previously been a Youth Minister in a church in Surrey. He is married to Esther and has 3 boys, ages 5 and under.
Nathan is passionate about creating safe, welcoming and encouraging spaces for young people and children to belong, flourish and grow in their relationship with God and in who they are created to be!
Jackie Harris -
Operations Manager
Jackie is married to Ray and has worshipped at St Matthews for a number of years. She has worked in Christian publishing for most of her career, editing Woman Alive magazine and most recently Day by Day with God, Bible reading notes for women published by BRF.
A Yorkshire lass, Jackie loves living by the sea and enjoys visiting the theatres, exploring historic properties and a good cup of tea.
Fenella Scott and George Rackham -
Church Wardens
As well as having an important governance role, our Church Wardens are a valuable support on many of the practical tasks that happen across a normal week.
