Retirement Celebration for Pastor Chuck Wilson
Join us for Camp Wilson, a Reception after the 11:00 Worship Service to Celebrate Pastor Chuck & Karen on his Retirement after 47 years in ministry! Sunday, June 8 in The Commons & Gym. Lite Bites provided. Short Program around 12:10 pm.
If you would like to contribute to a love offering for Pastor Chuck, you can do so with a gift to him directly (non-taxable for Pastor Chuck) or to MUMC (taxable for Pastor Chuck) with “Love Gift – Pastor Chuck” marked in the memo line. You can also make your gift online. If you are unable to attend the celebration and wish to send a card or love offering, please do so no later than June 5 to:
Pastor Chuck Wilson
Matthews UMC
801 S. Trade St.
Matthews, NC 28105
Read the overview from our Staff Parish Relations Committee below or link to the official Retirement Announcement to learn more.
Celebrating the Ministry of Pastor Chuck Wilson
After nearly a decade of faithful leadership at Matthews United Methodist Church – and more than 47 years in ministry – Pastor Chuck Wilson is retiring from his role as Senior Pastor.
Chuck first served at Matthews UMC as an associate pastor from 1987 to 1992, so his 2016 return as Senior Pastor felt more like a homecoming than a new beginning. From day one, his deep love for the local church, his gift for storytelling, and his commitment to building authentic community were unmistakable. Under his leadership, Matthews UMC deepened its outreach, strengthened its mission, and became a driving force for racial bridge-building in the greater Matthews area. His partnership with Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church – through Community Forums, Peace Meals, and annual MLK events – helped position the church not just in the community, but for the community.
Throughout his time at Matthews, Pastor Chuck has been more than a preacher. He’s been a listener, encourager, and faithful friend – someone who could craft a beautiful sermon and still find time to tell a good joke. His weekly “Just These Lines” reflections offered spiritual grounding and personal insight to thousands.
While Chuck’s professional accomplishments are many – including receiving the Harry Denman Evangelism Award from the Western North Carolina Conference – he is quick to point to his greatest joys: sitting around the table with his wife, Karen, and their beloved family, and sharing in the lives of the people he was called to serve.
As we celebrate Pastor Chuck’s retirement, we give thanks for the heart, humility, and hope he brought to Matthews UMC – and to all who walked alongside him.
