A Time for Courage - Mattie's Message
“The greatest powers
are courage, love,
confidence, and hope.
You get these things from
your heart and spirit,
which is your Life.”
Mattie J.T. Stepanek
During June and July,
we celebrate
Mattie’s anniversaries…
Mattie’s Peace Foundation continues Mattie’s mission of peace, purpose, and play with year-round programs and activities.
We also collaborate purposefully with the Mattie Matters Guild – the group that continues amplifying his ministry of Heartsongs, hope, and peace – as they work towards Mattie’s possible Cause of Canonization (or sainthood).
All are welcome to join Mattie’s Foundation and Mattie’s Guild as we celebrate a life well-lived, and a young man who’s spirit continues to serve as a “Messenger of Heartsongs” for diverse people of all ages around the world.
During June, Mattie’s Guild hosts a Memorial Mass in honor of Mattie’s passing from his life on earth. They also hold a brief graveside gathering at the cemetery where Mattie is buried with his siblings.
(SEE BELOW FOR INFORMATION).
During July, Mattie’s Foundation hosts a “party with a purpose” in honor of Mattie’s birthday. The city, county, and state where he lived all proclaim his birthday as “Peace Day” – and join hundreds of community members for an afternoon of festive fun.
(SEE BELOW FOR INFORMATION).
ALL ARE WELCOME TO JOIN US AT
THESE FREE CELEBRATIONS
HONORING A YOUNG MAN WHO
CHOSE TO LIVE WITH COURAGE
AND To CULTIVATE PATHWAYS
TO PEACE FOR OUR WORLD.
What's Been Happening...
Personalized Gift Bricks
were (finally!) ordered for
Mattie’s Park & Peace Garden.
We order once we have
at least 30 bricks sponsored.
Sometimes, that is once a year.
This time, it took two years.
Sponsorships for the
2026 Peace Day and inaugural
Cornhole for Peace tournament
are still be accepted.
Sponsors who support soon
will have personalized signage
at the July 11 event.
All sponsors are recognized on
the Our Supporters page.
What's About to Happen...
Mattie’s Memorial Mass
Celebrating Mattie’s 22nd anniversary
– all are welcome!
Monday, June 22 (6:30 pm)
St. Joseph’s on Capitol Hill
313 2nd Street NE
Washington, DC 20002
Mattie’s Peace Day
Celebrating Mattie’s 36th birthday
with a #Toast2Peace and
“party with a purpose!”
Saturday, July 11 (2-5 pm)
World of Beer Rockville
198 E. Montgomery Ave
Join us for a free community event
– entertainment, crafts, games,
cornhole, faceprinting, and more…
What We Are Working On...
Cornhole for Peace Tournament
The bracket is getting set for the
inaugural Cornhole for Peace tournament
that takes place during the
July 11 Peace Day celebration!
Still space for players,
or come and watch the excitement!
All players receive medals.
Champions earn trophy and gift basket
and join us on stage during the
Proclamation Program.
Mattie’s Virtual Museum
Peace – Purpose – Play
an interactive online experience!
Mattie’s Foundation is seeking
sponsorships and grant support as we
develop this three phase project
(archive and organize the materials,
develop and create the site,
and launch and disseminate the
galleries and spaces for exploring,
connecting, and learning
by local and global neighbors.
If you would like to learn more
or support this project,
please let us know:
INFO@MattiesPeaceFoundation.org
What's You Can Do to Support Our Work...
Mattie’s Peace Foundation
is a volunteer-based non-profit that
relies on the generous support of
our donors and sponsors.
Monthly, annual, and one-time gifts
help us move peace from
abstract ideas and attitudes
to hands-on activities and practices.
Thank you for choosing
to help us continue
Mattie’s mission and vision
for moving
from Heartsongs
(inner purpose & peace)
to mosaics
(collective purpose & peace).
What Matters...
