Ron Mathieu

As Executive Director of First Prez, Ron is currently involved in all areas of ministry, with emphasis in Finance and Admin, Buildings and Grounds, Congregational Life, Christian Ed, and Worship. His wife of 32 years, Angela, is a professional artist. They have two grown sons, eldest an artist in Seattle area, youngest a Seabee in the Navy.

Ron grew up traveling the world with his father in the Navy, three brothers, two sisters, and attending a total of 18 different schools. Prior to coming on staff with First Prez in September 2000, Ron was a Supply Officer (Captain) in the Navy for 25 years. He was stationed here in Hawaii with the Navy, and introduced to the church six years ago by Pete and Joan Bondi. Ron and his family joined the church and then returned to the mainland 1999-2000. That’s when Pastor Dan invited to join staff and he retired from the Navy to make that happen.

What is the most rewarding part of your ministry? Serving. It’s great to spend every minute of my work day knowing that it can make a difference in people’s relationship with God. That’s a life and death issue in my belief system. Also, it’s rewarding to know that we are spreading the Word and seeing how it changes people’s lives.

Describe a typical day in your ministry. I probably have the most diversified job at First Prez. The typical day is different from the day before in terms of specific issues. But my job is to help steer the course of our church, free Pastor Dan of things that will diffuse his focus as Senior Pastor, help multiply the ministry of others, and remove obstacles that frustrate our staff and congregation. Other than that, it's pretty routine.

What are your passions? I am passionate about helping other people, especially by teaching them more effective and efficient ways of doing things. I get excited about connecting everyday dots in new and interesting ways.

How did you become a Christian and how did you grow as a Christian? The most traceable element of my faith walk has been increased understanding that God is in charge and I can always trust Him.

What is the most challenging part of your ministry? Getting people to see their individual issues in the context of the larger picture. Every detail in this church is like a mosaic stone...it’s color, shape, and size (no matter how small) are important...but we have to back up and see the patterns to truly understand how it all fits.

Do you have a favorite passage of Scripture? Romans 8:28.

Favorite book of the Bible? OT: Psalms...NT: The Gospel of John

Favorite Christian author or books? Anything by C.S. Lewis

How did you become involved in full-time ministry? One step at a time. Seriously, it was a real sense of calling that had developed since I was very young. Then I was asked to drop my net and join First Prez. So I just did it.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received about being in ministry? Don’t be afraid to ask in faith. We’re promised that doors will open. Miracles can happen if you believe.

What CD is in your stereo right now? Cyril Pahinui

Favorite Movie? Shawshank Redemption

Favorite TV show? Frasier

Favorite Broadway play? Phantom of the Opera

McDonald's or Plate Lunch? Neither...Subway

Favorite Resturant? Indigo

Favorite food? Seafood

What are your hobbies? Wood carving

What are your passions? Mentoring. Improving the way things are done.

What would you do for another career? Motivational speaker

What do you like most about Hawaii? The weather

What do you do to relax? I love to play golf. Walk, garden, read.

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