Hope is real.
      Peace is possible.
             Life is worthy.
                     Prayer is powerful.
~ by Mattie J.T. Stepanek

Mattie J.T. Stepanek

July 17, 1990 – June 22, 2004

Mattie JT Stepanek holding his book

Message from Mattie:

“One day, for all to know, our legacy will simply be the shape of the life we leave behind, for eternity…

We are created by God – with purpose – in God’s image. God is all-goodness. God is great. God is love.

We, then, are created with purpose – to be good and great and love.

Let us remember this, and move forthward knowing and believing and living this truth, as we shape our lives and our legacies, and our eternity with God.”

– Mattie J.T. Stepanek

20th Anniversary Memorial Mass: A Time for Hope

Mattie modeled all of the Christian virtues throughout his short life. As Fr. Chris Seith said in his post-communion reflection, Mattie “exuded the light of Christ.”

Thank you, St. Rose of Lima parish, for welcoming the Guild and those who loved Mattie as we remembered and celebrated Mattie and his virtues. We were honored to have Msgr. John Enzler as Celebrant and Homilist and to be joined by Msgr. Robert Amey, St. Rose of Lima Pastor Agustin Mateo Ayala, Rev. Chris Seith and Deacon Bob Seith.

Please visit St. Rose of Lima parish’s YouTube channel to view the Memorial Mass and the beautiful homily by Msgr. Enzler and reflection by Fr. Seith.

And don’t miss the article by Our Parish Times covering the fundraiser and Mass for some great details and quotes.

“God gives me hope that there is something greater than us, something better and bigger than the here and now, that can help us live.” ~ Mattie J.T. Stepanek


Who Is Mattie: Come to our Virtual Conversations

It’s up! Take a look at our August 20th online session!

Watch the recordings!

Watch the earlier sessions and share them with others. Who was Mattie? Who is Mattie?

Please contact Kathy Dempsey, President of the Mattie J.T. Stepanek Guild, with any questions or if you would like the Guild to speak at your school, parish or organization. info@mattiematters.org

Mattie Matters Virtual Conversations – “Who is Mattie”

March 5, 2024 – Peace / Purpose / Play

April 9, 2024 – Faithful Servant / Hope & Gratitude

May 7, 2024 – Now: Schools Share Mattie & the Virtues

August 20, 2024 – The Mosaic of Mattie

Resolution Blessing

Sit and Pray with Resolution Blessing

Composer Joseph Martin set Mattie’s prayer Resolution Blessing to music in 2016. Here it is beautifully performed by the Hal Leonard and Shawnee Press Church Choral.

Mr. Martin, whose music has been performed at the Vatican, wrote, “From the inspired words of young poet and peacemaker Mattie J.T. Stepanek comes this benediction for peace.”

Anonymous Friend of Mattie

The Brogan Family

Alan & Joan Holmer

Our Parish Times

Guadalupe Radio Network – WMET 1160 AM or 103. 1 FM (Falls Church, VA)