Our Pastor
When you first meet Pastor Matt, you’ll quickly realize he’s one of the most down-to-earth and genuinely funny pastors you’ll ever encounter. For him, it’s never about titles or positions—it’s all about being in God’s will and fulfilling His purpose.
Born in Okinawa and raised in Kalihi, Pastor Matt is a proud graduate of Saint Louis High School on O’ahu. His diverse background includes being a former basketball coach, an airline employee, and an avid fisherman with countless stories to tell. A man of great wisdom and deep faith, Pastor Matt’s life is a testament to the power of God's calling.
His true passion is to see people live out their faith in Christ by embracing their unique calling. Pastor Matt travels, sharing the message of Christ’s love and how it transforms lives.
In 2004, he and a small group of leaders planted New Hope Kaua’i, a church that continues to thrive today. At New Hope Kaua’i, the focus is on growing “BIG People”—not in size, but in spirit—because every action and effort is tied to a soul so that none should perish.
One of his greatest joys is serving alongside his best friend and wife, Alison. Together, they have impacted thousands for Jesus worldwide, including in Hawai’i and Japan. They have a grown son, Daniel, who also serves in ministry.
Pastor Matt has a unique gift: the ability to make people laugh while filling them with the hope that only Jesus can provide. His heart for people and his unwavering faith are evident in everything he does.
What we believe
The Holy Scriptures: We believe that the Bible is God inspired (2 Timothy 3:16, 17).
The Eternal Godhead: We believe that God is Triune: Father, Son and Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 13:14).
The Fall of Man: We believe that man is created in the image of God but that by voluntary disobedience fell from perfection, thereby imputing sinfulness to all human beings (Romans 5:12).
The Plan of Salvation: We believe that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us, signing the pardon for all who believe in Him (John 3:16; Romans 5:8).
Salvation through Grace: We believe that we receive salvation when we come to God through faith in the atoning work of Jesus on the cross; salvation is God’s gift to us (Ephesians 2:8).
Repentance and Acceptance: We believe that, upon sincere repentance and a whole-hearted acceptance of Christ, we are justified before God (Romans 10:8-10; 1 John 1:9).
The New Birth: We believe that a very real change takes place in people who accept Christ as Savior; believers allow Christ’s life to be lived through them (2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 2:20).
Daily Christian Life: We believe that it is the will of God for believers to walk in progressive sanctification, growing continuously in the faith (Hebrews 6:1).
New Hope Kaua’i Ohana
Prayer Request
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