Bio: Pastor Matthew Barnett – Founder

PMB_book_pic2-199x300As a boy, the preacher’s son had a dream: a church that remained open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This church would serve the inner cities’ physical and spiritual needs, bringing a message of hope to the seemingly hopeless.  The Dream Center is the fulfillment of that dream. Pastor Matthew Barnett founded The Dream Center in 1994, starting an international movement reaching from South America to Sweden.

Matthew Barnett, New York Times Best Selling Author, and pastor of one of America’s fastest growing churches, is one of the most dynamic voices God is using in Christianity today.  Son of Pastor Tommy Barnett, best-selling author, church growth pioneer, and founder of what Time Magazine noted as “One of the three largest churches in America,” Pastor Matthew has learned powerful principles of ministry, which have gifted him in founding The Dream Center in Los Angeles.

The Dream Center began as a typical local church. With the fresh vision and desire to impact the entire city that God birthed in Matthew’s heart, the church grew from 39 members at its conception in September of 1994, to reaching more than 50,000 people each week in the Center’s multiple services and over 200 ministries and outreaches today.  The Dream Center houses over 600 people who are being rehabilitated for the glory of God.  Every week people receive food and many other services are offered to meet the spiritual and physical needs of the community.

In November 2001, Matthew took over the leadership of Angelus Temple.  Opened in 1923 by Aimee Semple McPherson, Matthew continues the churches legacy of reaching the lost, hurting, and oppressed.  The church now reaches thousands weekly and, together with The Dream Center, is showing how churches and outreach centers can work together to make a huge impact for God’s kingdom.

Pastor Matthew has spoken in some of the largest and most prestigious conventions, conferences, meetings, and churches throughout America and the world.  He has consulted leading businessmen, celebrities, and athletes.  Former President George W. Bush has endorsed him with the highest regards to his achievements, and his church has been recognized several times in the New York Times and the Los Angeles Times for its contribution to the community.

Matthew and his wife, Caroline, have two children, Mia Aimee and Caden West.