
Mattie and Candice Montgomery
Senior Leaders

Pastor Mattie Montgomery has served as the Founder and Senior Leader of The Altar Fellowship since its inception in 2019. He and his wife, Candice, have worked in ministry together since before they were married in 2009. Today, they live and serve in Johnson City, TN with their three sons: Kai, Caleb, and Carver.
Pastor Mattie first stepped onto the stage of international ministry during a decade-long tenure as the vocalist of the renowned Spirit-filled hardcore band For Today. Before planting The Altar Fellowship, Mattie and Candice spent years traveling and ministering together in churches and communities around the world.
In addition to his leadership at The Altar Fellowship, Pastor Mattie serves on the faculty of Judson University, where he supports the equipping of the next generation of ministers through biblical instruction, theological formation, and leadership development.
Pastor Mattie holds a B.A. in Leadership from Faith International University and has completed postgraduate studies at Cornell University. He is currently pursuing a Master’s degree at Westminster Theological Seminary, where he continues to deepen his theological education and preparation for ministry.
Pastor Mattie first stepped onto the stage of international ministry during a decade-long tenure as the vocalist of the renowned Spirit-filled hardcore band For Today. Before planting The Altar Fellowship, Mattie and Candice spent years traveling and ministering together in churches and communities around the world.
In addition to his leadership at The Altar Fellowship, Pastor Mattie serves on the faculty of Judson University, where he supports the equipping of the next generation of ministers through biblical instruction, theological formation, and leadership development.
Pastor Mattie holds a B.A. in Leadership from Faith International University and has completed postgraduate studies at Cornell University. He is currently pursuing a Master’s degree at Westminster Theological Seminary, where he continues to deepen his theological education and preparation for ministry.
Our Staff


David Morrison
Executive Pastor

Zac Hagerty
Worship Pastor

Anna Khan
Kids Pastor

Jon Back
Students Pastor

Trevor Hager
Production Director

Kim Hinchey
Church Office Manager

Rebekah Edwards
Communications Director

Josh Werth
Hospitality Director

Rich Hartmann
Facilities Director
Leadership Structure
At The Altar Fellowship, leadership is structured according to a biblical model that balances spiritual oversight with practical governance. This model is reflected in two distinct branches: The Board of Directors and The Council of Elders.
The Board of Directors oversees the senior leadership of our church, offering insight and administration into initiatives, doctrine, and the overall direction of the church. As part of this biblical model, the Board of Directors has authority to address any major concerns up to and including changes in pastoral leadership and staffing. Under the direction and oversight of the Senior Leader, the Council of Elders also offers insight into the direction of The Altar. Plus, they are also available to church members and staff for biblical counseling and support and may report concerns to the Board of Directors.
Together, these two branches work in harmony with the senior leader, ensuring that both the spiritual and practical needs of the church are met in a way that honors Christ and adheres to Scripture. This structure allows The Altar Fellowship to function effectively, maintaining a strong foundation in biblical leadership while addressing the practical realities of church administration.
Board of Directors

The Altar Fellowship stands firmly anchored in accountability through a dedicated group of Godly, Kingdom men known as the board of directors. These individuals play a pivotal role in guiding and overseeing the spiritual journey of the church. Beyond having a voice into the life of the pastor, they extend their care to safeguard the well-being of his family, recognizing that a thriving pastoral family contributes to the vitality of the entire church community. The board oversees the administrative and operational aspects of the church, providing governance on financial matters, legal responsibilities, and organizational management (up to and including changes in pastoral leadership and staffing).

Chris Mathis

Mattie Montgomery

Aaron Smith

Parker Thomaston

Damon Thompson
council of Elders

For The Altar Fellowship, a council of local elders ensures that leadership is deeply connected to and invested in the spiritual health and growth of the church. Their role is to assist in guiding the senior leaders through spiritual oversight; functioning as a collective body that reflects the diverse wisdom and experience necessary for discerning God's will for the community. The council of elders also functions as an additional layer of accountability for the senior leader, reporting to the board of directors on behalf of the church body.
If you have needs and/or concerns regarding the leadership or direction of The Altar Fellowship, please send an email to elders@thealtar.org.

Paul Collins

Anthony Cook

Rich Hartmann

Kashif Khan

