Matthew was the first colored Baptist Church built in Claiborne Parish, Ward 5, Athens, LA. Louis Desear, and three deacons: Gus Wade, J.M. Frazier, and Henson Walker. The three deacons and Sisters Essie and Ludia Wade named the church Saint Matthew after the first book of the New Testament, the generation of Jesus, Son of David, Son of Abraham. Over the years the Lord added other faithful men t
o the leadership of the church including Rev. Willie Giles, Jr. Then on November 17, 1999, Rev.Johnnie Dyes was called to be our new leader. With him came a vision of a new St. Matthew Baptist Church. This vision became a reality and on August 17, 2003 we entered our new sanctuary located on the same property. Thanks be to God who giveth us the victory. We also give thanks for our founders and other members who have gone on but never gave up. And as the Saint Matthew family of yesterday believed, we, the family of today also believe in Him and we live daily trying to make our church better and better because our Inspiration comes from the Past, our Duty is to the Present and our Hope is for the Future success of this church.
