St Matthew Staff

St. Matthew has a dynamic, talented, hardworking staff. We enjoy our collaboration.   We cover a range of denominations, including United Methodism and Roman Catholicism, but we are united in our love for God and our desire to serve God's children. Our skills are diverse, but complement each other - and the same is true of our personalities! See below for more information about each staff member. 

  • pastor Rev. Leslie A. Klingensmith

    D.MIN.

    Leslie became the Pastor of St. Matthew in March 2002. She holds a Master of Divinity degree from Duke University Divinity School and a Doctor of Ministry from Columbia Theological Seminary. Particular interests of hers are preaching, interfaith outreach and ministry, and pastoral care. Her hobbies include reading, writing book reviews, hiking, biking, and cooking. Leslie is married to Edward Taylor (also a Presbyterian pastor), and they have two sons, Samuel and Greer.

  • Konni m. Brantner

    Director of Youth Education and Outreach

    Konni joined St. Matthew’s staff in September 2003. She works with children and youth on all aspects of faith development, especially Christian Education and Mission. In 2009, Konni started an annual summer Vacation Bible School program is partnership with St. John’s Lutheran Church. It is a highlight of the summer for over 60 neighborhood children. Konni is an active member of the Community Partnership and in 2015 was given the Mid-County “Citizen of the Year” award for all of her outreach efforts in our neighborhood. Konni is married to Edward (Eddie) Brantner and they have a daughter, Amy.

  • Jeremy Young

    Director of Music, Organist

    Jeremy Young has served as St. Matthew’s Organist since 2002 and as Director of Music since 2007. He is the retired Director of Choral Music at Gonzaga High School in Washington DC. Jeremy directs our adult choir, is actively involved in worship preparation and planning, directs pop- up choirs and children's vocal and instrumental music, and hand bell choirs during special season. Jeremy is married to Ieva and they have two children, Tyler and Emma.



  • Kiara Torres - mazo

    Office Administrator

    Kiara Torres-Mazo joined the St. Matthew staff in 2025 as our office administrator/manager. Her previous positions included years of being an assistant to an author Phyllis Mindell and some time as a afterschool teacher for a local Montessori pre-school. She graduated from our local community college in Rockville, Montgomery College in 2023. Kiara prepares our weekly worship bulletin and all other printed material that the church produces, as well as being the liaison with outside groups who use our space, answering the telephone and door, and generally serving as the person who keeps things running smoothly. Kiara is a newlywed, who enjoys reading, crafting and following current events.