A devastating shooting on Sunday claimed the life of Robert Matthews, a well-known pastor at Joy Tabernacle Full Gospel Church in Mobile, Alabama. Matthews, 62, was fatally shot by his 36-year-old daughter, Charity Aleis Matthews, at their home, leaving the local community in shock. His wife, Twinetta Matthews, was also shot during the incident but is currently recovering in the hospital and is expected to survive.
The shooting, which occurred around 7:45 p.m., has been linked to potential mental health issues, as authorities explore Charity Matthews’ state of mind at the time of the attack. According to Mobile County District Attorney Keith Blackwood, the accused will undergo a mental evaluation to determine her competency to face charges, which currently include murder, two counts of attempted murder, and one count of reckless endangerment. Blackwood also indicated plans to upgrade the charges to capital murder, a move that would make her eligible for the death penalty if convicted.
In a disturbing string of events leading up to the pastor’s death, Charity Matthews allegedly fired shots at her brother’s car a day prior, though no injuries were reported. She also reportedly shot the father of one of her children later that day. Following Sunday’s attack, she fled the scene with her two young children but was apprehended the next day at a local Marriott Hotel.
Community Reacts to the Tragedy
The Matthews family has long been active in their church and local community, making this tragedy particularly heartbreaking. Joy Tabernacle Full Gospel Church has yet to issue an official statement, but family friend Shavon Buchanan, speaking on behalf of the family, expressed the immense grief felt by those close to the victims. Buchanan described Pastor Matthews as a “loving husband and father” and “an outstanding leader,” whose absence will be deeply felt. She also offered prayers for the accused daughter, acknowledging Charity’s troubled past.
“When I found out it was the Matthews family, there really are no words. It’s something that you would never expect. It’s almost like living in a nightmare only because they are such a great family,” Buchanan said. Despite the tragic events, she spoke warmly of Charity, emphasizing the love she had witnessed in her. “I know she carries love in her heart. I know that she’s seen a lot, been through a lot just from personal conversations that I will not share. There just are no words. I love her and I’m praying for her as well.”
A Voice of Faith Silenced
Pastor Matthews, known for his dedication to his congregation, was also a man of profound faith who often spoke about finding strength during difficult times. In a 2020 sermon shared on the church’s Facebook page amid the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, he spoke candidly about the struggle to understand God’s presence during life’s challenges. Drawing on the story of Job, he emphasized that even when God does not seem to act as a healer or protector, maintaining faith can lead to greater blessings.
“Sometimes, God may refrain from showing His power to heal, set free, and deliver in order to bring us to a higher level of faith and trust in Him,” Matthews shared. He reminded his congregation that Job kept his faith despite profound suffering, and was ultimately blessed for his perseverance.
Legal and Mental Health Concerns
The legal proceedings ahead will not only address the nature of the charges but also delve into Charity Matthews’ mental health. District Attorney Blackwood stressed the importance of evaluating her mental state, noting that her competence at the time of the offense will be a significant factor in the case. The community and legal system now face the challenge of seeking justice while also considering the complex mental health dynamics that may have played a role in this tragic incident.
As the investigation unfolds, the Mobile community mourns the loss of a pastor whose life was dedicated to faith and service, while grappling with the circumstances surrounding his death.
Credit: The Christian Post
