Melissa has been serving the DFW area since 1999. She officiated many weddings after being recognized as a spiritual leader in the DFW running/cycling community. Melissa spent time with people in spiritual reflection on long runs. She officiated their weddings on long rides, at marathons, in gardens, backyards and traditional wedding venues. In 2006, she began to formalize her training by attending and later receiving her MDiv from Andover Newton Theological School which is now at Yale. Melissa served congregations, wellness ministries, interfaith advocacy and helped people mark the important milestones in their lives. Along the way she finally was able to legally marry her long time partner, Lora. They have two children. Melissa currently maintains ordained standing with the North Texas Association of the United Church of Christ where she serves in leadership and outreach positions. She is a member of the faculty/staff at Pathways Theological Education.
Rev Melissa Ashmore 