CHRISTIAN CENTRAL ACADEMY
Pre-K-12 Private College-Preparatory SchoolMatthew Richbart
When Pastor Matt Richbart looks back on his time at Christian Central Academy, he remembers more than just academics—he recalls the friendships, faith, and foundational lessons that shaped his journey. Since graduating in 2005, his path has been one of deep faith, service, and trust in God’s calling.
Matt’s journey after CCA began at Niagara University, where he studied psychology and communications. However, he soon felt a restlessness in his heart and knew that God was calling him into ministry. “I knew I needed more preparation for the task God had called me to,” he shares. He transferred to Liberty University, where he earned a Bachelor’s in Religious Studies, and later attended Gordon-Conwell Seminary, graduating with a Master of Divinity.
After seminary, God placed a new challenge on Matt’s heart—to plant a church in North Tonawanda. In 2013, iHope Community Church was founded, dedicated to pointing people to Jesus and serving the local community. Before the church could officially open, Matt had to navigate the legal process of incorporating and forming a 501(c)(3). It was during this time that he met his wife, Stephanie, who worked at the lawyer’s office. “I actually met her on the day we closed on the church building,” he recalls. The couple married in 2015 and welcomed their son, Paul, in 2019.
At iHope Community Church, Matt and Stephanie have spent the past 11.5 years witnessing God’s faithfulness as they minister to the community. The church actively serves North Tonawanda through weekly kids’ clubs, church in the park, free community lunches, and special events like Breakfast with Santa and Senior Dinner. “Our desire is that we would be the hands and feet of Jesus in North Tonawanda,” he says.
Reflecting on his time at CCA, Matt treasures the friendships he built with both classmates and teachers. He has fond memories of camping retreats at Li-Lo-Li, senior trips to Florida, and cross country. But what impacted him most were the teachers who invested in his life. “There were many teachers that had a positive impact on my life, and there are many I could name,” he shares. “A couple that come to mind are Gail Conshafter, Kevin McNamara, Debbie Wade (my Aunt), and Sam Richbart (my Grandfather). While these teachers were all great academically, what stood out the most was that I knew they cared about me and wanted to see me succeed. The love and grace they showed me will never be forgotten.”
Matt credits CCA with instilling a strong work ethic that prepared him for college and seminary. More importantly, he left with a solid foundation of faith that has guided him through every challenge. His advice to current students is simple but profound: “The God life is the good life. Jesus truly is the treasure hidden in the field that is worth selling everything for (Matthew 13:44). Following Jesus doesn’t mean things will be easy, but His presence sustains us and empowers us to run the race of life well.”
Through years of ministry, Matt has learned one undeniable truth: “Over and over again, God has shown Himself faithful. Too often, I have doubted and asked, ‘Is God really going to come through?’ And every time, He is faithful.”
From a CCA student to a lead pastor, Matt’s story is a testament to the power of faith and perseverance. His journey continues to inspire as he leads iHope Community Church, sharing God’s love with the people of North Tonawanda and beyond.