Pastor Matthew Travis Birchfield was born in Birmingham, Alabama, on May 22, 1990, to Donald and Kelly Birchfield. The Lord saved him at the age of 16 at Providence Baptist Church in Woodland, Alabama, where he later sensed a clear call to preach at 17. He preached his first sermon in October 2009 and, one year later, was called to serve as youth pastor at Liberty Grove Congregational Methodist Church. During this season, he completed his undergraduate studies while serving bi-vocationally in the local church.

Desiring deeper training in God’s Word, Matthew moved to Laramie, Wyoming, to attend The WEST Institute, a ministry training program of Shepherds Theological Seminary, where he completed a Master of Theological Studies. Facebook After graduation, he returned to East Tennessee with a desire to faithfully preach Scripture, shepherd families, and serve the local church.

In February 2024, Valley View Baptist Church in Wears Valley called Matthew to serve as youth pastor. In September 2025, upon the retirement of long-time pastor Dr. Preston Joslin, the church family affirmed Matthew as Lead Pastor of Valley View Baptist Church. 

Matthew is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity with a focus on Pastoral Ministry while serving the congregation at Valley View. His preaching and leadership emphasize expository teaching, a high view of Scripture, and a heart for gospel-centered ministry in Wears Valley and beyond.

Matthew is engaged to Kirsten McCarter, and they plan to be married on December 13, 2025. Together, they look forward to building a home committed to Christ, His church, and His mission.