About St. Matthias · East Lyme, Connecticut
St. Matthias Catholic Church in East Lyme, Connecticut, is part of a yoked parish community with St. Agnes in Niantic, sharing one pastor, office, and many ministries while retaining individual identities. The parish serves a growing community with regular weekend and weekday Masses, sacramental services, and active parish groups. Founded in 1922 as a response to the needs of local Catholics, it has evolved through several structural and architectural changes, including the construction of its current church in 1957 and the renovation of its facilities in the 2000s. The parish is part of the Diocese of Norwich and offers a welcoming environment for spiritual growth and community involvement.
- Established
- 1922
- Patron
- St. Matthias
- Diocese
- Diocese of Norwich
Why belong here
Join our community to experience a welcoming, faith-filled environment where you can grow spiritually through regular Masses, sacraments, and active ministries. Our parish offers programs for all ages, including youth ministry, liturgical art, bereavement support, and outreach to the needy. Whether you’re seeking spiritual nourishment or community connection, St. Matthias and St. Agnes offer a home away from home with a strong emphasis on service, education, and worship.
Mass times at St. Matthias
Weekly Mass schedule
Confession times
- Saturdays: 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM at St. Agnes
- Other times by appointment
Adoration times
- Fridays after the 9:00 AM Mass to 1:00 PM at St. Agnes
History
St. Matthias Church was established in 1922 as part of the broader Catholic community in the East Lyme area. It was originally part of a seasonal mission system serving summer visitors and local Catholics. The parish was formally established as St. Agnes Parish in 1922, with St. Matthias being part of the same parish community. The church building was constructed in 1957 after a long process that began in the 1930s, with the foundation dug by hand by seamen and Fr. Michael Thompson. The parish has grown significantly since its founding, with over 1000 registered families and 25 parish groups by 2008. The St. Francis Chapel, adjacent to the parish, was established in 1908 and continues to host Masses during summer months.
Ministries
- Liturgical Art & Environment
- Youth Ministry
- Bereavement
- Health and Homebound
- Knights of Columbus
- Women’s Club
- Assistance for the Needy
- Respect Life Advisory
- Education
- Children and Youth
- OCIA
Sacraments
- Baptism
- Reconciliation
- Holy Eucharist
- Confirmation
- Marriage
- Holy Orders
- Anointing of the Sick
- Funerals