About Melissa

I grew up in Thiensville, Wisconsin, a tiny town where I was one of the local baristas. I found satisfaction through friends, sports, good grades and a list of empty accomplishments. I didn’t attend church and knew so little about Christianity I could not have told you that “Jesus died on the cross.” I was lost and didn’t even know it. My accomplishments and pride weren’t a life at all. Rather, I was dead and in darkness without a relationship with the only One who is life, Jesus Christ.

I moved to Texas in August of 2008 and attended the University of North Texas. I unintentionally yet divinely attended the last Sunday service at The Village Church that December. As I arrived (late and annoyed), God’s people were lifting their hands and singing, "You bring restoration, hallelujah. You make all things new." I was immediately overcome by something indescribable and began to weep. At that point in my life I did not have words to describe what God was doing in my heart, or even that it was Him at all. As my eyes were opened to the Bible for the first time I couldn’t stop thinking, “I have never heard anything more true in my entire life.” I found myself addicted to the Word of God and joined a Home Group the following year. The Lord used His Word and those amazing women to teach me what had happened that day and to show me the joy that comes through obedience to Christ. 

In 2010 I began serving in the Preschool Ministry at The Village Church. The Lord completely changed my heart and ignited in me a passion for ministry to the youngest of our church. I was hired at The Village Church in 2011 and served there until 2014, when I was a part of the launch of what is now known as Citizens Church where I oversee both Preschool and Elementary Ministry. During my time at Citizens Church, the Lord has done much to sanctify me. One of the greatest gifts in my life is my husband, Luke, whom I met in 2016 as he was serving in Elementary Ministry. It is my greatest joy to continue to serve this church together, teach children about who God is and what He has done, and have a front row seat to watch Him transform their tiny hearts. 

My Hope for Citizens Church

My hope for Citizens Church is that we would be people committed to the Word of God and walking in vulnerable humility with one another.