Our Mission Statement: “To offer our service, facility, and church programs to meet the needs of our community and beyond so that lives are transformed to the glory of God.”

Our Vision: “To be a loving community that supports all people in finding new life in Christ.

St. Matthews By-the-Sea began in a tent in Fenwick Island in the summer of 1961 under the direction of the Reverend David Baker, then pastor of Salem Methodist Church in Selbyville. Three lots at Dagsboro Street and Highway 1 were purchased and construction began on June, 1962. A concrete floor was laid and services were held with the sky as the roof. Construction continued and the Cornerstone was laid in September, 1962. In the fall of 1963 two lots adjacent to the church were purchased to provide parking space. Additions and improvements continue at the church on a regular basis.
As Fenwick Island and the surrounding area grew and many people began to make this their permanent home, the decision was made to have a permanent congregation at St. Matthews. On January 13, 1990, the Rev. Dr. Donald O. Clendaniel, Sr. was appointed pastor and served until 1999 when our current minister, Rev. Bruce Miller became our pastor.
Our church is more than a building; it reaches out to the community and provides a welcome place of worship for hundreds of visitors as well as our own members. This is our mission.