About Us
Vision Statement
A church committed to restoring and discipling people to a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.
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Staff Bio
Dr. Leroy Lacy, Jr. has served as pastor of St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church since September of 1992.
He has been Gospel Preacher since 1983. He began his ministry at Outreach Missionary Baptist Church where he preached his first sermon to the waiting congregation in May. During his tenure at Outreach, Dr. Lacy served as assistant to the Senior Pastor and then as the Youth Pastor. He was ordained in October of 1987.
Dr. Lacy preaches with a passion that is compelling, a transparency that is easy to relate to, and a depth of understanding that is deep and yet elementary. He effectively communicates to all ages, because he connects the messages to everyday life.
He is a Certified Christian Counselor and holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the Okidome College of Biblical Study, A Master of Theology degree (2006), a Master of Divinity degree (2008) and a Doctorate degree (2018) from Faith Seminary in Tacoma, Washington.
Pastor Lacy is married to Deborah Lynn Lacy and together, they have five children and eight grandchildren.
Dr. Leroy Lacy Jr.
Lead Pastor
William Henry”Bubba” Sherrard Jr.
“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” –Isaiah 40:31
This Scripture is a motivator for William Sherrard as he encounters life’s triumphs, failures, and accomplishments on his Christian walk. His work at St. Matthew Baptist Church is exemplified by following the leadership of his beloved pastor. He is married to Linda Sherrard and they are the proud parents of 3 sons, William III, Derrick and Christopher, 3 daughters-in law, Holli, Ashley & Rachel and 5 grandchildren, Cameron, Hailey, Jayden, Derrick II & Micah.
He delights in talking to, listening to, praying with and for and teaching whenever possible. He encourages them to become active participant and follows their growth as active in various ministries in the church.
His contagious smile, even in the worst of times, has proven inspirational to many members of the Saint. He takes his work as Co-Chair of the Deacon Board, New Member Orientation Instructor, PACT member and Brotherhood as a calling from God, appointed by the pastor, seriously and attempts to serve as humbly and faithfully as he can.
Chairman, Deacon Ministry
I am Deacon Fred Clark and I really love the Lord! My favorite scripture is Psalm 100. I have a passion for the word of God.
As Lead Servant of the Trustee, I work closely with my pastor, Dr. Leroy Lacy Jr., and the staff of St. Matthew on building maintenance and campus beautification. I am willing to serve in any capacity needed for the people of God and my beloved church.
My favorite pastime is spending quality time with my wife, Alice. We have 6 children and many grandchildren.
Deacon Frederick “Fred” Clark
Trustee Chairman
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Wisely Epps
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:5-6
As a loyal member of St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church, Wisley Epps takes great pride in serving as the Co-Chairman of the Deacons Ministry, working with the men of our church, and attending Sunday School.
With 25 years of experience in law enforcement, Deacon Epps also works to ensure that members are able to enjoy service in a safe and secure environment and is always willing to share his expertise in this area.
In addition to his love for the church, he finds great joy in spending time with his wife Mechelle, children Micaela, Malcolm and Maxwell and is an avid sports enthusiast and fan of the Dallas Cowboys.
Co-Chairman Deacon Ministry
Deborah Lynn Lacy
Church Administrator
First lady, Deborah Lynn Lacy is a native Houstonian and has been a part of St. Matthew since birth. As a committed servant to the St. Matthew Baptist Church, Deborah's dedication to prayer and service has been her motivation to her family in the flesh and in the faith.
She stands on her favorite scripture, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things will be added unto you" Matthew 6:33.
Always allowing the word to be her inspiration as a mentor to the Kingdom Builder's Ministry, and serves as Church Administrator.
Deborah is favored as the love and life supporter to her husband Rev., Dr. Leroy Lacy Jr. and his call to the ministry of Christ. Together they share as parents to five children and 8 beloved grandchildren.
If I can help somebody as I pass along the way, then my living will not be in vain…” This statement truly epitomizes Joyce Sherrard, St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church Secretary for more than 30 years. She has been a servant of God throughout her life. She is the wife of Charles W. Sherrard, Sr. and the mother of one son, Charles Jr. and one daughter, Sherrhonda Hunter. They are the grandparents of two granddaughters; Ashley & Saniah, and six grandsons; Sean, Matthew, Michael, Charles, III, Deondre & Damarcus and two great-grandsons, Matthew Sherrard Jr. & Xavier Carter Sherrard.
In addition to serving as Secretary at St. Matthew, she can be found serving whenever and wherever needed. A humble servant of God who can be described as as dedicated, visionary, innovative and resourceful.
She enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to gospel music, reading and shopping. Her loves are God, her family and her church. Her philosophy of life is: “I am only one, but I am one, I cannot do everything, but I can do something and what I can do, I must do and what I must do, by the grace of God I will do for “I can do all things through Christ which strengthen me.”
Joyce Clark Sherrard
Church Secretary
Dr. Debra L. Lacy
ZOOM Producer
Debra enjoys serving behind the scenes. In her role as Zoom producer and virtual usher for our Zoom congregants, Debra ensures that members and guests unable to attend church in person have a medium for praise and are able to hear a word from the Lord.
Debra has lived a life anchored in the awareness and richness of Romans 8:28 knowing that not everything is good, but rooted in the awareness that God has a way of working things out for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
Debra is mother to son Gary, and “GiGi” to grandsons Cameron, Bryson, and Tyson. Debra also mentors youth at Fort Bend County’s Juvenile Detention Center, and encourages participants in Texas Department of Criminal Justice’s Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP) through the Leadership Academy Correspondence Program to be the people God called them to be.
She is appreciative of Pastor Lacy’s consistent and unwavering leadership and vision.
Antonio Peoples is the audio and video tech at St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Leroy Lacy, JR. He has served here for one year and counting! He is one of four brothers and enjoys his role here at St Matthew. He started his career in audio and video eight years ago, where he does his best to give God Glory through his talents.
He is a manager at your local hotel where his specialty is hospitality and catering. He enjoys cooking, fishing, basketball, and spending time with friends and loved ones. Antonio hopes to show the world how good God is, through the special people that reside here at St. Matthew MBC online.
Antonio Peoples
Audio & Video
Linda Clark Sherrard
Youth Director
I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work. – John 9:4
This scripture the force that drives Linda’s Christian walk with God.
Linda Clark Sherrard is married to Deacon William “Bubba” Sherrard Jr. and is the mother of three handsome sons, William III (Trey), Derrick and Christopher and the mother-in-law of Holli, Ashley & Rachel. She is also the proud grandmother of Cameron, Hailey, Jayden, Derrick, II and Micah.
Linda is a retired educator who has served as a teacher, coordinator, assistant principal, principal and director in the Galena Park ISD. She currently serves as a member of the Galena Park ISD. She truly loves serving the Lord and working in her church for Kingdom building. Her humble spirit and giving heart is displayed in every performance and project she is a part of. God instilled in her leadership skills to work with His people in and out of the church. She serves in many capacities at the church and gives 100% of her time and talent.
Linda is her family’s counselor, her mom’s chauffeur & care-giver, her grandkids fairy god-mother and her husband’s all in all.. Her friends describe her as “a friend indeed”. To know Linda Sherrard is to love Linda Sherrard as she continues to do all the good she can, while she can, knowing she will never pass this way again.
I'm Minister Marlin Rayshawn Jackson. I love my Pastor and my church, St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church where I currently serve as Director of Vocals, Worship Leader and Choir Director.
I am now on my 19th Year of service as a Senior Student Transportation Specialist currently with the Spring Independent School. I also serve as Minister of Music for Houston’s own, Gospel Recording Artist, Jackie Smith and YDM. I've had the opportunity to travel all over the United States and to London, England doing what I love, ministering through song . I have shared the stage directing the choir for several Gospel Artist such as, Beverly Crawford, the late Lacreshia Campbell, Dorothy Norwood, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Smokie Norful and many more.
I love my beautiful mother, sister and family with all of my heart. Millions didn't make it, but I was one of the ones who did! I’m grateful and thankful for life.
Marlin Rayshawn Jackson
Worship Leader
When God led Dre to the “119” he instantly knew it was where he’d get the spiritual growth he needed. Not only did he grow an instant love for St. Matthew but, he also grew a close relationship with his Pastor, Dr. Leroy Lacy Jr.
While growing in his ministry at St. Matthew he also shares his gift by musically assisting others in the community. Anytime he is available to serve he is doing just that. John 9:4-5 KJV I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.
As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. “Severing the Lord will pay off afterwhile.
Leslie “Dre” Littles
Minister of Music
Betty Jacobs
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
Proverbs 31:10
Betty Jean Connor Jacobs the oldest of 5 children , born to the late Ed & Kirksey Conner. Married to the late Deacon Emmerick Jacobs. Mother of 4 children Ronnie, Daphne, Deborah, and Michelle. Grandmother of 6 and great grandmother of 5, 1 deceased.
Betty is a lover of people and affectionately serve as lead servant of the Deaconess. Her contagious smile and love for mankind is admired and respected by all.
She loves her Pastor and the entire congregation. Her motto is "If I can help somebody as I pass a long life's way then my living is not in vain".
Deaconess
I am the proud husband of Bessie Lee, father of two children, Michael and Shawn and grandfather of three. I am a graduate of Oikodome Bible Institute with a Bachelor of Arts Degree.
It is my greatest honor to teach and edify those in the Body of Christ to a higher call of Christian living that glorifies our Lord and Savior Jesus the Christ.
Pastor Norman Lee
Christian Education Minister and Lead Servant of Men’s Ministry
Anita Jones
Lead Servant, Ushers Ministry
While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. II Corinthians 4:18
Anita has been a proud member of the St Matthew Missionary Baptist Church for more than 20 years. She has been a servant of God throughout her life.
Anita Jones is the wife of Dwayne Jones and the mother of one son, Djuan Jones and one daughter, Rachel Atkinson. They are the grandparents of two granddaughters; Akayla & Nevaeh and one grandson Cai.
Anita is the President of St. Matthew's Ushers Ministry she can be found serving whenever and wherever needed.
A humble servant of God who can be described as dedicated, and resourceful. She enjoys spending time with her grandchildren and her entire family, listening to gospel music, and baking.
She has a dedicated love of God, her family her Pastor and her church. “Only what do for Christ will last.
Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” -John 19:14
I was raised in Houston, Texas. As an only child, I am very family orientated and come from a large close knit family.
I have 15 years of experience working with children and have worked with the children at St. Matthew fir more than a decade. I chose this field because I love being able to help people. I enjoy the relationships that I create with people and the bonds formed with others, “Children are our future”.
My hobbies include shopping, traveling and trying all types of food.
Janee Elmore
Helping Hands Nursery Ministry
“If i can help somebody as I pass along life’s journey, then my living is not in vain.
Sharon Thomas is a beautiful, energetic, virtuous woman and a role model to the young and old.
As a member of St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church, she can be found, not only serving as Lead Servant of the Seasoned Saints and Deaconess Ministries, but working and supporting every ministry of the church. As the leader of the Seasoned Saints, she keeps her group motivated and on the move, she plans monthly field trips and activities which always include a fellowship lunch. She enjoys decorating, shopping, traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Sharon witnessed mountain top and valley low circumstances in her life time and she sums it up by saying, I have lived to see the goodness of the Lord and I don’t mind letting the world know that “God is great and greatly to be praised!”
Sharon Thomas
Seasoned Saints
Barbara Cravin
Kingdom Builders Ministry
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14
If you were to ask one of the many children she served over a 50 year span to speak on the character of Barbara Cravin, they would speak highly of her kind nature, warm words of encouragement, pleasant and quiet personality, and her strong desire to do what she has done for the majority of her life and that is to serve others. She is a hard-worker, a person who makes things happen, and a great love and respect for people and especially the children from St. Matthew and Houston Independent School District.
Barbara is the wife of James A, Cravin and the mother of two sons, Courtney and Terrance. She is also the proud grandmother of Sydney, Cameron Steven, and Samantha.
Through her years as a member of St. Matthew, she has been blessed to serve the church in numerous areas. Barbara was a youth Sunday school teacher, Assistant Superintendent of Sunday school, and the lead Servant of the church programs for many years. Due to the vision of Pastor Lacy, she presently, serves as the Lead Servant of the Kingdom Builders Academic Ministry whose primary purpose is to assist school age children and their parents through tutorial sessions, a Table Library where children can check out books, ACT and SAT college test preparation sessions, the St. Matthew Scholarship which is awarded to a graduating senior. In addition, her church also gives college books vouchers to each graduating senior who plans to attend college. For 8 years, with the approval and direction of her pastor, Dr, Leroy Lacy Jr., she speared-headed a summer academic enrichment program better known as “Camp Solid Rock.” for children in grades K-7th. And the highlight of the Kingdom Builders Ministry is to recognize children grades Pre-3-12th grade for their A/B Honor Roll achievement each grading period. Back-to-School supplies are also given to the children of her church and children from the neighborhood.
She enjoys reading, house decorating, volunteering her time in schools in need and of course spending quality time with her children, grandchildren and friends. She loves her church family and she loves and enjoys getting ready for church Service.
She gets so excited when she receives and invitation to visit a program at her grandchildren’s schools/
Every child can learn if he/she is taught.
To God Be the Glory for all that He has done in the Life of Service for Barbara Cravin.
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. – Romans 8:37-39
I, Mary Jones Myers, Lead Servant of the Pastoral Assistance Care Team (PACT), has always loved and feared God.
I am the wife of my soul mate, Danny Myers, the mother of (deceased) daughter Monica Dion Clark; the grandmother of 8 and GiGi of 7 with love for all which keeps me on my knees praying that one day they too will look to God for all things.
I love to shop, cooking is my passion, love music, and I always keep an open mind and heart to do whatever I can to help someone in need. To me an open hand and heart to reach out and help someone in need gives me strength to stand. I love people!
I’ve been a member of SMBC for 16 years. Since becoming a member, I have grown tremendously spiritually and in God’s word which gives me strength to challenge illness and any adversity that may enter my space.
For I’ve learned we will never take our Place as ”more than an overcomer” with Nothing To Overcome!
Mary L. Jones Myers
Pact Ministry
But as it is written, “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”
I Corinthians 2:9
As a dedicated member and admired speaker, Dr. Mechelle Epps, has led in ministry in a variety of capacities during her years at St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church and currently serves as the lead servant for I’m Every Woman, our women’s ministry group that serves to educate and empower the women of our congregation.
Whether working with students, parents or staff in her professional world or working in the church, Dr. Epps strives for excellence is always willing to serve or support in anyway she can.
Her most enjoyable moments are those precious times spent with her husband Wisley, their two sons Malcolm and Maxwell, and her large and loving family.
Dr. Mechelle Epps
Women's Ministry
“Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.” Proverbs 16:3
Sheila Williams serves as lead servant of the R.O.C.K. Ministry. The goal of this ministry is Reaching Our Children for the Kingdom. She has been faithful servant of this thriving ministry for at least ten years along with her fabulous and enthusiastic staff. As lead servant, she is committed to teaching our younger children Bible Basics and leading each one to Christ.
While serving as the children’s church director, she is a member of the Mass Choir, Kingdom Builders Ministry, VBS instructor and Youth worker. She has a love for children and ensures that every student who crosses the threshold of her classroom is successful and a lifelong learner.
She loves God, her family and her church and is thankful to God for the many blessings in her life. She believes in letting her light shine so that others may see Jesus in all that she sets forth in her life.
Her favorite times are spending time with family and friends, shopping and traveling.
Sheila Williams
Children’s Church Director
The R.O.C.K Ministry
Sandra Evins
Sunday School Superintendent
Mahatma Ghandi once said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” and Sandra Evins has found herself dedicated to a life of service to God as well as mankind.
Sis. Evins has been a faithful servant at the St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Leroy Lacy, Jr since June 2003. Sis. Evins currently serves as the Sunday School Superintendent. Her commitment to St. Matthew’s Mission Statement, Sandra strives to foster understanding through communication by sharing and receiving information from Pastor Lacy, students, members and teachers. She also makes every effort to create a team environment by giving members the right opportunities and encouragement for personal and spiritual growth.
In addition to her duties as a Superintendent, Sis. Evins is an active participant of the Women’s Ministry as well as the New Member In-take, Care and Concern Ministry.
Throughout her walk with the Lord, Sis. Evins has always been encouraged by a Scripture found in Jeremiah 29:11 which says, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” She uses that verse to guide her as she continue on this journey called life. Ask anyone and they’ll tell you she always puts the needs of others over her own and is always available for prayer and words of encouragement
Beverly Nance
Lead Servant, Voices of Triumph Choir
Beverly Nance has been attending St. Matthews Baptist Church for nearly 20 years. During these years, she has been the “Voices of Triumph” choir president for quite some time. In addition to being the choir president, Beverly has also been a loyal PACT ministry member where you might have seen her serving many hungry bellies with a smile. She truly loves singing in the choir and giving all praises and glory to GOD.
When not in church, Beverly enjoys spending time with her family. She is a loving caring mother/grandmother to one child and three grandchildren. However her loving attitude doesn’t stop there. She is also friend to many in the church, also known as her amazing church family. She is someone who loves to help without needing anything in return. She also loves shopping and cooking many delicious meals.
In brief, she truly loves attending St. Matthew and doing all she can for the church.
Her favorite scripture, Psalms 34 says “I will bless the Lord at all times his praise shall continually be in my mouth” thus she will continue to do all she can to show her love for the Lord.
Reverend D.K. LaBat
Youth Pastor
I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. Galatians 2:20
Reverend D.K. LaBat serves as the Youth Pastor of St Matthew Baptist Church. He is a licensed and ordained minister who has a passion to preach and teach God’s word. LaBat believes it is vital that young people are deeply rooted in scripture being able to share and defend their faith in the resurrected Christ.
LaBat is happily married to his best friend Shevette LaBat.
If I can help somebody as I pass along the way, then my living will not be in vain…” This statement truly epitomizes Joyce Sherrard, St. Matthew Missionary Baptist Church Secretary for more than 30 years. She has been a servant of God throughout her life. She is the wife of Charles W. Sherrard, Sr. and the mother of one son, Charles Jr. and one daughter, Sherrhonda Hunter. They are the grandparents of two granddaughters; Ashley & Saniah, and six grandsons; Sean, Matthew, Michael, Charles, III, Deondre & Damarcus and two great-grandsons, Matthew Sherrard Jr. & Xavier Carter Sherrard.
In addition to serving as Secretary at St. Matthew, she can be found serving whenever and wherever needed. A humble servant of God who can be described as as dedicated, visionary, innovative and resourceful.
She enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to gospel music, reading and shopping. Her loves are God, her family and her church. Her philosophy of life is: “I am only one, but I am one, I cannot do everything, but I can do something and what I can do, I must do and what I must do, by the grace of God I will do for “I can do all things through Christ which strengthen me.”
Joyce Clark Sherrard
Church Secretary