Introducing Trinity’s New Pastor, The Reverend Melanie “Mel” Smith
Growing up in the church some of my first memories are of stealing sugar cubes during coffee hour, watching my mom’s finger as she taught me to read music during worship and listening to the congregation sing “bless be the ties that bind”. My faith has been built through and taught me to love the gift of community.I first heard the call to ministry while in college, at Whitworth University, as I listened to a woman preach for the first time – as her words challenged and encouraged the congregation, I felt God inviting me to consider the possibility of following in her shoes.
After graduating from Whitworth with a BA in Religion, I moved to San Ramon CA, where I worked as a Director of Youth Fellowships.
In 2008 I returned to Whitworth to pursue a Master of Arts in Theology and worked in the Chapel as a Graduate Assistant Ministry Intern. Following graduation, I transferred to Princeton Seminary where I earned my MDiv. During my second year I had the opportunity to work as a seminary intern at Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church in Manhattan where I got my first taste of working in an urban setting and the community that comes with working in a high paced atmosphere.For nearly 10 years, I have called St. Louis home, working and serving as an Associate Pastor with a focus on youth and family, mission and new member ministries.
During my time in St Louis, my love for community has only grown as I have worked with local organizations and held different roles in our Presbytery – I am currently serving as our Vice-Moderator.
When I am not working, I enjoy exploring local and national parks; hiking, backpacking, kayaking, and camping. I recently took up gardening and am making plans for what to plant in the spring – I enjoy mystery novels and spending time with my dog Buddy.
It has been a joy and privilege to get to know the members of Trinity’s PNC and I look forward to getting to know you and seeing what God has in store at this time, in this place and with this community of faith!
I am looking forward to beginning serving with Trinity February 14, 2022.
