Rev. Dr. Frederick Matthews

Early Life

Rev. Dr. Frederick Matthews was born on December 3, 1951, in Madison, Mississippi, the second of five children born to the late John H. and Carrie B. Matthews. When he was just six weeks old, his family moved to New Orleans, Louisiana, where he grew up and began a life of service that continues to touch many lives.

He attended McDonough #38 Elementary School and Carter G. Woodson Junior High School, and graduated from Booker T. Washington Senior High School.

Service to Our Country

After high school, he proudly served in the United States Navy. His assignments included sea duty aboard the destroyer USS Blandy, stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, and the aircraft carrier USS Lexington, based in Pensacola, Florida. He received an honorable discharge in March 1974.

Education

Continuing his education, he earned an Associate of Science degree from Delgado Junior College and attended Southern University at New Orleans. His deepest academic and spiritual pursuits led him to Christian Bible College of Louisiana, where he earned both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s Degree in Theology. The college later honored him with a Doctorate of Divinity in recognition of his dedication and faith.

Faith and Family

Rev. Matthews accepted Christ at a young age in Sunday School and was baptized by the late Rev. Freddie Williams of St. Matthews Missionary Baptist Church.

On April 11, 1970, he married Lorraine Daniels, and together they built a loving family. He is the father of one daughter, Sister Latricia D. Matthews, and a foster son, Terry Lee Morgan. He is the proud grandfather of Lindsey Denise, Fredrick Jason, and Eddie Humphrey III.

Called to Preach

On March 10, 1992, while serving as a deacon at My Redeemer Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Dr. Eddie L. Branch, he answered the call to the gospel ministry. He preached his first sermon on the second Sunday of June 1992 and was licensed to preach on October 11, 1992.

In February 1994, he joined Nazarene Baptist Church, led by the late Rev. Joseph L. Gaines, where he served in many ministries — especially youth outreach and development. On March 7, 1997, he was ordained by the Southern General Missionary Baptist Association, then led by the late Rev. Dr. Frank L. Lewis.

Pastor of New Mount Bethel

On July 12, 1998, Rev. Dr. Matthews was called to serve as pastor of New Mount Bethel Baptist Church in Kenner, Louisiana. For 28 years he has faithfully shepherded this congregation, exemplifying what it means to be a man after God’s own heart.