Matthew Richbart

Matthew has had many different ministry experiences both in the United States and abroad. He has ministered to various demographics including kids, senior adults, prisoners, youth, as well as on missions trips. While in high school, Matthew felt called by God to serve in full-time ministry.

After high school Matthew started out studying psychology and communications at Niagara University. Even though Matthew excelled at Niagara University, it seemed that something was missing. Matthew realized that he needed to study God’s word and to fully commit to ministry. This lead Matthew to transfer to Liberty University’s distance learning program where he graduated in 2008 with a B.S. in Religious Studies.

Matthew continued his preparation for ministry at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Matthew received a Masters of Divinity from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in 2012.

During his college and seminary years Matthew began to dream of planting a new church. Specifically, Matthew hoped to plant a church near his hometown. After seminary Matthew did research on different areas in wny where a church plant would be beneficial. North Tonawanda was the area that stuck out to him. After an extensive search for places to plant a church Matthew was led to an incredible opportunity at 316 Thompson St. Matthew is excited to be serving iHope Community Church and looks forward to seeing what God will do through iHope.

Matthew hobbies include: playing and watching sports, board games, and spending time with his beautiful wife and partner in ministry Stephanie, as well as playing with his son Paul. He is passionate about preaching Jesus and how the good news can transform lives. His favorite verse is Galatians 2:20 which reads, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”