Mat Thornton, a lifelong Methodist and Missourian, is a Licensed Local Pastor in the UMC. As the Executive Pastor for PWC, he oversees the administrative functions, staff development, and strategic planning.

Mat was baptized and confirmed in the United Methodist Church in Clinton, Missouri. He graduated from the University of Central Missouri with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. Prior to joining Platte Woods, Mat worked as a musician and educator, playing and writing marching band shows for high school and collegiate programs. In 2013, Mat joined Platte Woods Church as the NEXT Worship Leader, and has been a member ever since. In 2018, Mat accepted a call to ministry and began seminary at Saint Paul School of Theology. After graduating with a Master of Divinity degree, he became a Local Pastor in the UMC.

PWC has played a very special role in Mat’s life story, including meeting his wife, Andrea. He both proposed and married her in the church. Andrea and Mat welcomed their daughter, Nora, in the spring of 2022. They are happy Northlanders who love spending time hiking, traveling, watching movies, shows, and, of course, reality TV. Grow Groups have been their through-line for both their spiritual and personal growth. They love hosting and letting people know they belong.