Staff Profile

Fr. Matthew Hillyard OSFS

Faculty Information

Title(s)
Pastor

Contact Information

Email
(Primary)
Work Phone
703.938.2828

Other Information

Biography

Degrees: B.A. Modern Languages - Allentown College of St. Francis de Sales, 1984; M.A. - Church History, Catholic University, 1991; M. DIV. - De Sales School of Theology, 1991

Professional Background: For nineteen years, I served in Catholic school ministry. From 1984-1986, I taught French and Spanish at Fr. Judge High School in Philadelphia, PA. After my ordination, I served as an Instructor in theology at Allentown College from 1991 until 1994. From 1994 until 2000, I ministered at Paul VI High School in Fairfax, VA as chaplain. In 2000, I moved to Bishop Ireton High School in Alexandria, VA, my alma mater. Between 2000 and 2003, I served as Chaplain and Vice-Principal. In 2003, I became the Principal of BI, and I remained in that position until 2008. In 2008, I moved to Camden, NJ and was the rector of the Cathedral parish until 2016. In July of 2016, I came to Vienna, VA and became the pastor of OLGC in September, 2016.

How I put my Faith in Action: I love the Good Samaritan in Luke's gospel. Remember, it is in answer to the question, "Who is my neighbor?" Jesus responds by telling us that the neighbor is the next person. Sometimes, that is a family member or a neighbor or it might be someone difficult for us. Jesus says the next person who comes to me is my moment for faith in action. I try to remember and act on that. Sometimes, I think I do a good job, other times I think I need to do better.

Favorite Activity Outside of Work: Dining with friends, running, listening to music, cooking.

Favorite Food: Italian, French, Filet mignon, mashed potatoes and french fries

Favorite Moment you had in your Vocation: Preaching, Anointings, Weddings, Funerals, Musings and One on One Conversations

Fun Fact About You: I want to improve on my Spanish and French.

Favorite Quote: "Wherever your heart is, there your treasure will be; forgiveness does not erase the past, but it does enlarge the future."

Favorite Saint: St. Francis de Sales - the Gentleman Saint. The world would be a different place if we all tried to be a gentleperson.