Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
I write to share both a word of thanksgiving and of transition within our diocesan family. After more than 14 years of faithful and visionary service as Executive Director of Camp DeWolfe, the Rev. Matt Tees has accepted a call to serve as rector of St. David in the Pines, Wellington, Florida, in the Diocese of Southeast Florida. Matt will conclude his ministry at Camp DeWolfe in December, after which he and his family will relocate to Florida to begin this new chapter.
Since arriving at Camp DeWolfe, Matt has guided its mission with devotion, creativity, and deep faith. Under his leadership, the camp has grown in both spirit and impact, offering countless young people and families experiences of Christian community, formation, and joy. During his tenure, Matt and his wife, Emma, welcomed three children, and together they have shared their family’s life with the wider Camp DeWolfe community.
In 2022, Matt was ordained to the priesthood, adding sacramental ministry to his gifts of leadership and pastoral care. In addition to his work at Camp DeWolfe, he serves as Chair and founding member of E.P.I.C. (Episcopalians and Presbyterians in Conversations), the official dialogue with the Presbyterian Church (USA).
As Matt and his family prepare for this transition, we give thanks to God for his extraordinary ministry among us and pray for his continued service in Christ’s Church. Camp DeWolfe has been deeply blessed by his dedication, and his legacy will continue to shape its future.
Following his departure in December, the Camp DeWolfe Board of Managers, together with the staff, will ensure the camp’s ministry continues without interruption. A search process for the next Executive Director will begin in the coming weeks.
Please join me in giving thanks for Matt, his family, and the many ways God has worked through him in this diocese. We commend him to God’s care as he begins this new call in Florida.
The Rt. Rev. Lawrence C. Provenzano
Bishop of Long Island