Staff
Rev Scott Thomas
Contact: Church Office, tel. 716-875-3365
Rev. Scott Thomas is a second-career pastor, having spent his early professional life as a newspaper editor, largely at The Buffalo News. A graduate of Northwestern University and Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School, he was ordained in the United Church of Christ in 2004. He served Amherst Community Church (UCC) from 2004 until his retirement in 2015, and became Nativity’s interim minister in March 2023.
Scott and his wife, Gwen, live in North Buffalo. They have two grown sons and two grandchildren – one in Lockport, the other in Seattle.
Sandy Mathisen, Office Manager
Contact: Church Office, tel. 716-875-3365
e-mail: office@nativityucc.org
Sandy Mathisen joined the Nativity staff in 2014. Her responsibilities include the overall operation of the church office, design and editing of printed materials including bulletins and newsletters, and recruiting and supervising volunteers. Sandy serves on two church committees and is a volunteer usher and liturgist.
Beyond Nativity, Sandy is an avid baker, gardener and traveler. Good books, movies and live theatre are a passion. Sandy also is active in two community-based bereavement support groups.
Andrew Stephens, Music Director
Contact: Church Office, tel. 716-875-3365
e-mail:
Andrew Stephens is a graduate of the Eastman School of Music, with a Master’s in Piano Accompanying and Chamber Music. Prior to his appointment as Nativity’s music director in July 2023, he spent over a decade in various churches in accompanist and music director roles. He currently works for a local CPA firm as its Manager of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.
Andrew and his partner, Lee, live in Buffalo, along with their two cats.