Our Mission

Our mission is to provide inspiring and uplifting quality music supporting Sunday services and other programs and events at Unity Spiritual Center.

Music Director

We welcomed a new Music Director on November 17, 2024.

Matthew Wilson is a sought-after recording artist and solo performer. He’s been a soloist with the Kansas City Symphony, a member of the Grammy Award Winning Kansas City Chorale, and a regular guest on The Living Room - Kansas City's original entertainment/talk show.

After 23 years of sharing both life and music, Matthew Wilson and his spouse, Rev. Dr. Richard Loren Held, have taken a bold step together - relocating across the country from Seattle, Washington to join Unity Spiritual Center (USC) in Westlake, Ohio. While Rev. Held assumes the role of senior minister, Wilson begins his journey as the music director—a serendipitous alignment of opportunities that allows the couple to continue creating and inspiring together.

For Wilson, the journey to USC was a thoughtful and deeply spiritual process. “We were both in a period of ‘listening’ to what we were being called to do,” he explains. Over the course of several years as Music Director for Unity in Lynwood, WA and Rev. Held as Senior Minister, the couple contemplated a change and began exploring new communities. USC quickly stood out as a special place. “We were drawn to how engaged the congregation seemed. It’s a unique and extraordinary community.”

Initially, only the senior minister position was available, which presented a potential challenge. Having spent over two decades creating music together, the idea of not continuing this shared passion weighed heavily on Wilson. “Music has always been my path,” he reflects. “My happiest and most fulfilling moments are when I’m sharing my ministry of music.” When USC later posted the music director role, it felt like it was divine intervention. “I knew this was meant to be.”

A Vision for USC's Music Ministry

Wilson brings an impressive pedigree of musical accomplishments to his new role. A native of Tennessee, music has been integral to his life from an early age, with roots in southern gospel, country, and bluegrass. He honed his talents at the Conservatory of Music at the University of Missouri-Kansas City and has since enjoyed a thriving career as a recording artist, performer, and music director.

As a businessman, Wilson produced a successful concert series for each of his bed and breakfast establishments, recorded two albums, and was the voice on Garmin holiday commercials. 

From working with such notables as Jo Anne Worley (Laugh-In), Oleta Adams, and Grammy Award-winning artist Connie Dover, to being a featured soloist with the Kansas City Symphony, his experiences have shaped a dynamic and versatile approach to music.

At USC, Wilson envisions an inclusive and vibrant music program. “I’m excited to bring quality music to USC and see it become a beacon for Unity and New Thought,” he shares. Plans include building a full band, a large joyful choir, and offering a range of concerts, from a Valentine’s Day Chocolate Cabaret, Classical at the Labyrinth, and a Summer Concert Series to interfaith choral events. “I want to create music experiences that uplift and inspire.”

A Warm Welcome to Cleveland

The move to Cleveland marks a new adventure for Wilson and Held. “Adventure is in my blood,” Wilson says with a smile. Though leaving their former home was a leap of faith, the couple has embraced their new surroundings wholeheartedly. “I was genuinely surprised by Cleveland’s natural beauty,” he admits, highlighting Lake Erie, the Metroparks, and Cuyahoga Valley National Park. As self-proclaimed foodies, they’ve also been delighted by the local culinary scene.

Though his primary focus remains on USC, Wilson is excited to explore Cleveland’s rich cultural and musical opportunities. “I’m not planning to join any specific groups right now, but I love discovering the area’s arts and events.”

Beyond the Church Walls

In addition to his work at USC, Wilson is relaunching his website to promote his albums and performances. He hopes to expand his reach, offering his voice for weddings, funerals, and special events. “I’m excited to continue sharing my music ministry in every way possible.”

With a rich history of professional success, a heart full of passion, and a deep commitment to his new community, Matthew Wilson is poised to make a lasting impact at Unity Spiritual Center and beyond.

Visit Matthew’s Facebook music page at https://www.facebook.com/tenorwilson.

YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/@matthewwilsonmusic/videos.

Contact Matthew at music@unityspiritualcenter.com.

Choir

Meet our 2025 Easter Choir (in alphabetical order) Wendlyn Alter, Vivian Baith, Reed Baker, Vivian Baker, Bonnie Chase, Barb Clugh, Layla Diaz, Kathy Ginter, Karen Kazsmer, Jim Larsen, Jan Casey Lieber, Shirley MacFarland, Patty Mayher, Mary Maynard, Elise Panel, Corrine Patel, Diane Schlegel, Eileen Spada, Diane Spence, Jessie St. Cristopher, and James Van Hala, led by Matthew Wilson. Photo by John MacFarland.

The next choir will be for Christmas. Rehearsals begin early December. Watch our Community Facebook page for details or contact Matthew late November.

Choir supports our unwavering commitment to inspiring, quality artistic support during every Sunday service! No experience is necessary - only open hearts and willing spirits. All are welcome to join the first rehearsal without making any commitment. Please review all rehearsal schedules before committing. Full attendance is necessary.