Hope at the Edge: Faith, Leadership, and the Future of Alaska with Elizabeth and Matthew Schultz

What does faithful leadership look like when communities are separated by thousands of miles, churches feel forgotten, and public life is marked by deep division? In this episode of Belonging, Becoming, Beloved, Sean and Frances sit down with Elizabeth Schultz, Executive Presbyter of Yukon Presbytery, and Rev. Matt Schultz, pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Anchorage and candidate for Alaska’s sole seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Together they share stories from Alaska’s vast and diverse landscape, where congregations range from urban centers to remote Indigenous villages accessible only by plane. Elizabeth reflects on the challenges and joys of serving churches across Alaska, the importance of showing up, listening deeply, and reminding communities that they have not been forgotten. She shares powerful stories of Indigenous faith communities, local leadership, and the surprising ways God continues to work through churches facing significant challenges. Matt discusses his discernment to run for public office, how ministry has shaped his understanding of leadership, and why compassion, integrity, and service remain essential in both church and civic life. He reflects on the common hopes people share across political divides and the importance of listening before speaking. Throughout the conversation, themes of connection, hope, vocation, and faithful presence emerge. Whether serving a congregation, a presbytery, or an entire state, both Elizabeth and Matt remind us that leadership begins with relationships and that God is often at work in places many overlook.