Arnold Matthies
November 6, 1931 – May 6, 2024
“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.” Psalm 116:15.
On Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 2pm, family, friends, and the church family gathered at Bunurong Cemetery to celebrate the life of Brother Arnold Matthies. The ceremony was to remember Brother Arnold who, in his later years, found his way back to the Lord and surrendered his heart completely to Him.
A student from Hebron Missionary College and pastoral worker, Arnold was posted to the state of Victoria in the 1950s. Sadly, he left church employment and his church attachment in the 1960s. However, many years later, Arnold resurfaced by making contact with the brethren in Melbourne.
Brother Arnold’s journey back to faith was marked by a deep love for the truth and a heartfelt commitment to God. His words, often paraphrased, resonated with many: “The only thing I regret in life is having walked away from God, but I’ve returned to Him, and there is no turning back.” He was rebaptised on November 25, 2023. Less than six months later, after a brief stay in hospital, he passed away, on May 6, 2024, at the age of 92.
Arnold Matthies is survived by his brother Allan and sister Noelene, both from Christchurch, New Zealand. Gwen, his beloved wife of many years, passed away in 2022. His niece Jodie, daughter of Arnold’s late brother Lawrence, from Wagga Wagga, is well known to many.
As we bid farewell to Brother Arnold, we hold on to the hope of seeing him again on the special resurrection day. His life and words serve as a powerful reminder of the grace and redemption found in returning to God’s embrace. May his memory inspire us all to cherish our faith and remain steadfast in the truth and our journey with the Lord.