Rev. Dr. Melissa Lynn Allison Bio

The Rev. Dr. Melissa Lynn Allison (she/her) is a pastor, teacher, conflict mediator, peace and justice practitioner. She currently serves as the Stated Clerk for the Presbytery of Detroit. Melissa grew up in Midland, Michigan; earned her undergraduate degree from Alma College (Go Scots!), and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies. She went on to Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary where she received her Master of Divinity degree with awards in the “Interpretation of Scripture and Life.” She attended Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School in Rochester, New York for her Doctorate in Ministry with an emphasis on peacemaking, interfaith dialogue and prophetic preaching. Melissa is co- author of the book, “Girlfriends’ Clergy Companion: Surviving and Thriving in Ministry.”

Melissa has led congregations In Michigan and New York, through significant governance and staff restructuring; cultivated collaborative relationships with neighboring congregations, interfaith communities and nonprofit organizations; deepened the long-term mission partnerships of the church with congregations and non-profit organizations. She has been carrying out her ordination vows through service in various presbyteries, with the Presbyterian Mission Agency Board, Advisory Committee on the Constitution, and the Board of Trustees for Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Rev. Allison is deeply committed to working with marginalized communities around restorative justice practices, access to affordable housing, food justice, reproductive health, racial justice and LGBTQIA inclusion.

Melissa currently lives in Ypsilanti, Michigan with her wife Robin. With one child launched, one in college and one on their way, they love eating the food Melissa cooks, adventuring across the country, finding a great beach to read on, trail to hike, and listening to live music. The dogs know the cat is the boss of the house. And Melissa does her best to not let rarely finished artistic endeavors and dead plants take over the house.

To reach Melissa, please call the POD office at 313-345-6550 or

click here to send her an email.