Meet our Staff

Rev. Ryan found his way to St. Matthew after he completed his Master of Divinity at Luther Seminary. Rev. Ryan brings a deep passion for learning about our Biblical scriptures and Lutheran theological understandings. He finds great joy in helping others see the narrative beauty, rich complexity, and wonderful poetry of our Biblical witness to God’s grace and love for all of creation through Jesus Christ.

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Rev. Ryan was born and raised in St. Louis Park, MN a suburb of Minneapolis. He received a double Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and Music from the University of Minnesota. He then worked in the nonprofit sector as a program director and fundraiser. He earned a Master of Nonprofit Management from Hamline University in St. Paul, MN in 2018. He moved to Windsor, CT with his husband Ned Heckman in 2019 and worked as a fundraiser and community engagement specialist for a small school for children with autism in West Hartford. He entered Luther Seminary in 2021. 

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​Upon Rev. Ryan’s graduation with a Master of Divinity, he was ordained to ministry of Word and Sacrament in May 2024​. He received his call to serve St. Matthew first as Director of Christian Education in 2023, and then as Associate Pastor upon his ordination. He is proud to be serving this faithful congregation!

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When Ryan isn’t doing pastoral duties or Christian education - you might find him enjoying a novel with a good cup of coffee, enjoying the western CT hills with his husband (where he can also read novels and drink coffee), or joining a group of friends to explore a new craft brewery.

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Reach out to Rev. Ryan anytime at revryan@stmatthewavon.org or 860-673-3301 ext. 3.