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A congregation was organized in 1901. In that year, the first services were held in Despatch (now East Rochester) by Archdeacon Washburn; they were later discontinued. About 1914 churchmen petitioned the Bishop to have services held. Archdeacon David agreed to hold services if a place was provided and so it was. The first service was held March 7th, 1915 in an unoccupied store.
Two lots were purchased and the Board of Missions gave $1,500 and ground for the church building was broken May 5, 1915. After the basement was finished services were held there for the first time in November 1915. The people were unable to contribute a great deal of money but willingly gave of their labor. Archdeacon David was instrumental in procuring whatever else was necessary. On April 23, 1916 (Easter Sunday) the first services were held in the church. The total cost of the church building was $3.158.38 and when completed there was no debt.
St. Matthias' was admitted to the Diocese as a mission in 1923. The building, a two-story wood frame structure seating 110 persons, was remodeled in 1937.A fire in 1946 led to the building of a new chancel. A parish hall of three rooms is located in the basement of the church. In this remodeling a new roof with steel beams were put on and a new entrance built. Separated from the church edifice was a rectory, later sold in 1950; the Diocese helped in this project. St. Matthias' was admitted to the Diocese as a parish in 1987.
The governing body of this parish is by elected members of the Vestry and a Senior and Junior Warden. The current rector is the Rev. Susan C. Kohlmeier. The Bishop of Rochester is the Right Rev. Jack M. McKelvey.
From small beginnings the ministry of St. Matthias' Church now extends well beyond the Village of East Rochester.
Reprinted from an East Rochester Association of Churches publication.
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