St. Matthew's Episcopal Church

The history of St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church is intertwined with the history of National City. National City was founded in 1886 by Frank Kimball, who also helped to begin St. Matthew’s church. In 1881, Bishop William Kip gave canonical consent for the foundation of the parish of St. Matthew’s, National City; and in 1882 the parish of St. Matthew’s Episcopal Society was formed.

The first service at St. Matthew’s was held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday July 3, 1887. According to a review of the service, published on July 7, 1887, “the building was filled with people representing many different denomination, gathered together and united in the one common feeling that all are brethren who enroll themselves beneath the banner of the Cross.” As such, we continue to strive to be a place of welcome, not just for “the Episcopal branch of the Jesus movement,” but for anyone seeking a space to find community & commune with God.

Our current community is made up of people whose roots are tied to many different countries, most predominantly the Philippines, Mexico, and the U.S. We delight in Christ’s life-changing embrace across all generations and cultures.

St. Matthew’s is currently lead by The Rev. Roberto Maldonado-Mercado.