Matt Mihelic | Lead Pastor

Matt’s greatest passion in ministry is helping others know and walk with Jesus Christ. While growing up in Alabama, he heard that his sins could be forgiven because of the cross. Since then, he has experienced increasing joy and amazement walking with the God of his salvation.  

Matt finished high school in Knoxville and eventually moved to Virginia for college and then law school. While in law school he realized that the Lord had given him a passion for preaching God’s Word. So, after graduating he left for Africa where he partnered with local pastors to see a new church planted in Jinja, Uganda. He later graduated from Southern Seminary, where he has taught courses in politics and law at Boyce College. After also living and ministering among refugees in Louisville, KY, Matt completed a season of pastoral training at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington D.C. He then returned with a burden for Knoxville, joining the staff at Shoreline Church.  

In April 2022, the members of Island Home Baptist Church voted unanimously to welcome Matt as their next pastor. 

Outside of church, Matt loves to get outdoors, read a good book, talk around a campfire, and exercise.