It is with a very heavy heart that we received the news of the tragic passing from this life of the servant of God Presbyter Matthew Baker (STOTS 2008). Currently details are few but some time early this evening while attempting to drive home from his parish assignment at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Norwich, CT Fr. Matthew was involved in a car accident and passed away as a result of the injuries.

The following message was published by the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Boston:

Memory Eternal!

Fr. Matthew Baker tragically passes away in a car accident this evening

To the Faithful Stewards of the Metropolis of Boston,

With a very heavy heart, His Eminence informs you of the untimely passing of the Rev. Fr. Matthew Baker, who tragically died in a car accident early this evening. Fr. Matthew was recently assigned to the Holy Trinity Parish of Norwich, CT, following the retirement of Fr. Paul Pantelis. During this evening's snow storm, Fr. Baker was traveling home from the parish when he had an accident from which he did not survive. His children who were traveling in the car with Fr. Matthew are thankfully not injured. The Metropolitan spoke directly with Presbytera Katherine a few moments ago and expressed the love and sympathy of the entire Metropolis and assured her of our prayers, presence and support.

More information will be forthcoming tomorrow. Please join His Eminence as we pray for Fr. Matthew's eternal repose. We pray for Presbytera Kate, their six beautiful children, Fr. Matthew's mother and their entire family, that the Lord surround them in His comforting and peaceful embrace. May he rest in peace! May his memory be eternal!

The following funding website has been set up where people can make direct donations to offer support for his family during this most difficult time. Fr. Matthew was a dedicated priest, husband, father, and friend.

The Church and world are the lesser for his passing.

Within Your peace, O Lord, where all Your saints repose, give rest also to the soul of Your servant, for You alone are immortal.

On Monday, March 2, 2015 represenatives from the St. Tikhon's Community met in the St. Nicholai of Zicha and South Canaan Chapel to offer a memorial service for the newly departed Priest Matthew Baker. It was a very solemn and moving event for all who attended. The service was offered by the Dean of the Seminary the V. Rev. Steven Voytovich.