Originally hailing from West Michigan, I’ve lived in Ann Arbor and Benton Harbor, Michigan, as well as in Chicago, Illinois. I first moved to Kentucky to attend Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and I am a new arrival here in Franklin. God has given us an opportunity to worship and grow together at Franklin Presbyterian and I am very grateful to be part of serving Jesus Christ in this community. My previous career included years writing and editing for encyclopedias and textbooks, as well as more than a decade as a writing and later creative director for a marketing agency. The call from the Holy Spirit to serve the church and God’s people is a blessing. My family has moved to Franklin as well, my wife of more than 20 years and my three children (two in high school and one in elementary), plus our dog and our cat. My vision of God’s Beloved Community is one where we Love God and Love Neighbor in a radical way, that every single human being on this planet is created in the image of God, and that we work for peace and justice for all people, that God’s kingdom comes on earth as it is in heaven.

Bailey Pickens,

Community Connections Director

Candice Butler-Mendoza, Office Manager

Jason Matteson, Music Director

Jason Matteson has been an active participant in community music-making for more than two decades and has performed with numerous instrumental and vocal ensembles in central New York, Ontario, Massachusetts, and Tennessee. In 2005, Jason earned an associate’s degree in culinary arts, which was quickly followed up with earning a bachelor’s degree in music education from the Crane School of Music. After teaching music, ENL and literacy in several school districts for several years in central New York, Jason moved to Tennessee during the Covid-19 pandemic and earned his master’s degree in choral conducting from Austin Peay, where he taught some classes and conducted the university choirs.

Personally, Jason enjoys hiking, kayaking, going barefoot, and spending time outside whenever possible. He is also an avid lover of history, geology, and antiques, collecting old music books and hymnals to odd eccentricities. Being a bagpiper and professional Scottish Drum Major, Jason feels a deep connection to the British Isles, including its expansive history, long standing traditions, varied musics, comedies, and food/drink. All which runs into other nationalities and cultures across Europe and the globe. He is also very passionate about supporting the ethical treatment of animals, and if it wasn’t for cheese, Jason would be vegan. Musically, Jason is very eclectic and likes a lot of music ranging from medieval music to folk music and world music, classical music to classic rock, old country western to indie folk, and much more including contemporary choir music. For further biographical information, please visit Jason’s website at www.jasonmatteson.com.