Greetings, I am Reverend Matthew D. Franks, commonly known as Matt or Pastor Matt. Currently, I have the privilege of serving as the Senior Pastor at First United Methodist Church located in Castle Rock, Colorado. My appointment to this position began in July 2022.

My roots trace back to Miami, Oklahoma, where I grew up. As a proud member of the Cherokee Nation and with Sac and Fox tribal heritage, I cherish my cultural identity. Whenever possible, I engage in Southern Straight Dancing, connecting with my ancestral heritage and paying tribute to my family.

In 2001, I completed my education at Miami High School. Subsequently, I pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion from Oklahoma City University, which I successfully obtained in May 2005. During my time at OCU, I discovered my calling to become an Ordained Elder. Following my undergraduate studies, I embarked on a journey to pursue a Masters of Divinity program at Phillips Theological Seminary in Tulsa, Oklahoma, which concluded in December 2009. In May 2013, I was ordained as an Elder in Full Connection within the Oklahoma Conference of the United Methodist Church. Furthermore, in 2019, I seized the opportunity to further my education at Dakota Wesleyan University, where I earned a Masters of Business Administration in Non Profit Management for Ministry Leaders. This degree was completed in 2022.

Outside of my pastoral duties, I derive great pleasure from watching baseball and soccer, whenever I am not shuttling children to various activities. As a lifelong enthusiast of the St. Louis Cardinals, I continue to support them passionately. I also find joy in exploring the world of soccer, actively seeking a club to follow. Moreover, I have ventured into the world of podcasting as a hobby. Alongside Reverend Zach Bechtold, I co-host a podcast called “Bearded Theologians.”

My ministry is driven by several passions. I hold a deep appreciation for worship services that foster a genuine connection with God and inspire individuals to live out their faith. Walking alongside individuals on their spiritual journeys, assisting them in discerning the guidance of the Holy Spirit, is an endeavor close to my heart. Lastly, I am devoted to expressing love and care for our neighbors and the environment, working towards the growth and development of the kingdom of God.