Melissa MacDonald

Bio

Melissa J. MacDonald is a seasoned veteran in the realm of ministry, boasting over two decades of dedicated service to the global community. She is a captivating speaker to audiences of all ages, an experienced coach, and a prolific author. Melissa has left her mark on organizations such as The Christian and Missionary Alliance, the International Network of Children’s Ministry, and the Global Children’s Forum. She loves kayaking, golfing, and really good food. Alongside her husband, Luis, they serve as foster and adoptive parents, making their home in Iowa where they are actively involved in their local community. She also boasts having the world’s cutest dog, but admits she may be biased.

Areas of Expertise

Melissa is profoundly committed to supporting ministry leaders and nurturing children's spiritual growth worldwide. Her Coaching Bootcamps provide intensive small-group (4 or less) coaching over six weeks, focused on areas such as Discipling World Changers and Children’s Ministry 101. She’s known for her unique style of speaking, blending humor, truth, and real-life examples that keep her audience engaged and inspired.

Experience

Melissa grew up in a pastor’s home, where ministry was always done as a family. After graduating from Crown College in Minnesota, she served as a children’s pastor in both Florida and Idaho. Moving to Vienna, Austria, as a missionary at an international school, she became their Elementary Chaplain and Counselor. She received her master’s degree in leadership and counseling from A. W. Tozer Seminary, and worked for 10 years as the Children’s Disciplemaking Specialist for The Christian and Missionary Alliance. While there, she created and founded cmalliancekids and was the creator and dean for the Children’s Disciplemaking Leadership Certificate. Melissa continues to travel extensively, both locally and globally, and loves good ethnic food.