With a passion for Christian ministry with today’s young people and families, the Rev. Melinda Dodge has served the Los Altos United Methodist Church under appointment since July 2011. She has a heart for welcoming all of God’s people into relevant ministries that empower gifts and nurture spirituality.
Previously, Melinda was the founding Executive Director for The Work of Angels Group, a 501(c)3 serving transitional-aged foster youth; the Community Youth Pastor for the First United Methodist Church of Canoga Park and the Director of Youth Ministries for both the Atascadero and Westwood United Methodist Churches. Additionally, Melinda has worked in international theatre and opera production on all sides: administrative, creative/productive and technical. She has experience onstage with the Los Angeles Opera, San Francisco Opera and Houston Grand Opera, among others, producing well over 350 performances of some 70+ operas. Melinda holds a Master of Divinity from the Claremont School of Theology and a Master of Arts in Theatre from the University of Michigan.
She resides in Long Beach with her husband, the Rev. Johan Dodge, and two children. She is fond of a good cup of coffee, yoga, baking, and is always up for an adventure!