The Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Matthew

I was born in Guyana, South America. My early Christian upbringing is credited to St. James Lutheran Church, located just walking distance from our home. In that little church, the Lord began forming me for the ministry.

In 1991 I immigrated to Brooklyn New York to be united with my mom and siblings. In a few short months, as God would have it, I got married to my wife, Chandra, who resides in Canada. We began our lives together in Scarborough in mid 1992.

After my work career with Bata Retail Canada ended as it was bought out, I finally answered the call to enter seminary at Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary, St. Catharines. Upon graduation, the Lord called me back to my home congregation in Scarborough, The Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Matthew. I was Ordained and Installed in September of 2013.

Shepherding the Lord’s flock here at St. Matthew has never ceased to surprise me. I just don’t understand how the Lord could count me worthy for such a privileged and undeserving task. Nevertheless, I revel in the joy and excitement of serving my Lord in serving His people. Knowing how much I am loved by Jesus, my Shepherd, and in His power, I strive to love His sheep as best as I can.  

Serving joyfully,

Rev. Dereck Pillay, Pastor