STAFF

Pastor Kassandra Matthews


A Letter from the Minister


Dear friend,


Welcome. Whether you arrive with a long history of faith or are just beginning to ask spiritual questions, I’m so glad you found us.


My name is Rev. Kassandra Matthews, and I have the privilege of serving as the minister at Elm Street United Church. I don’t always love listing what a church offers—I’d rather begin with a different question: what do you need? Whether it’s connection, prayer, space to breathe, or simply a place to belong, you are welcome here. I’m here to serve this community with care and compassion, and it would be an honour to walk alongside you.


A bit about me: I live here in Niagara with my wonderful husband and our three young boys, who keep life full of joy and energy. I completed my Master of Divinity at the Atlantic School of Theology, where my graduate research explored how the Holy Spirit is renewing the church through emerging expressions, particularly within the United Church of Canada. It has been a hopeful journey studying the creative and surprising ways God continues to bring new life to the church.

Before entering congregational ministry, I served for five years as a chaplain in long-term care. Pastoral care remains central to my calling—offering presence, listening, and hope in the midst of life’s joys and sorrows.


If you are looking for a place to explore faith, find community, or simply speak with someone who will listen, please feel free to reach out. I would love to hear your story.


Grace and peace,


Rev. Kassandra Matthews

[email protected]

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Music Director: Linda Tamburri


Linda holds an Honours Bachelor of Music degree (McMaster University) and a Master of Arts degree (York University). She teaches piano, voice, theory, and operates 2 music studios (Ontario Conservatory of Music in Welland and Port Colborne) and has performed extensively throughout the Niagara region with a wide variety of groups. Linda is also composer of both Christian and popular music genres. She brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to her position as music director at Elm Street United Church.

Children's Ministry Leaders


At Elm Street, we believe children are not just the future of the church—they are a vital part of the body of Christ today. Our Sunday School, held from September to June, is a place where children are nurtured in faith through engaging lessons, creativity, and caring relationships. Led by wonderful, seasoned leaders who have a heart for kids, our program helps children grow in their understanding of God’s love in ways that are meaningful to them.


Children begin worship with the whole congregation, participating in various ways before heading to Sunday School after about 20 minutes. We know that every child has different needs for movement and connection, so children are always welcome to stay in worship if they prefer. We offer quiet activities for little hands and hearts who like to keep busy during the service.


We also welcome children at the Communion table, where all are invited to share in God’s grace. No matter where they are in their faith journey, children belong here—loved, valued, and embraced as part of our church family.


We’d love to welcome your family to Elm Street United!

Administrative Assistant: Kathy Illich


“I've been coming to Elm Street most of my life.It has been my home away from home.My happy place at church is in the choir which I've been a member of since high school. Upon retirement, I've been able to become more active in the church life and have been the administrator since 2017. Elm Street is family and I am so happy and proud to be a member.”

Accompanist: Keith Carscadden


Keith hails from Ottawa, moving to St. Catharines in 1952 where he continued with piano lessons, singing in elementary and high school and church choirs, and later with the Robert Wood Singers. As a teen, he began playing piano and organ at various churches, and attained a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Brock University, and an Ontario Department of Education Music Supervisor Certificate, retiring as a Junior Division elementary school teacher, specializing in classroom vocal music. Since then, he enjoys volunteering to play piano at various local nursing homes and at Elm Street United Church.

Council Chair: 

Kim Losier

Church Administrator: 

Kathy Illich

Treasurer (Accounts Receivable):

Stuart Keeley

United Church Women:

Marlene Grosskurth