Mark ‘72 and Melissa Heim

Prof. Mark and Dr. Melissa Heim have long been fixtures around Andover Newton. Mark is a 1976 graduate of Andover Newton’s MDiv program and a 1978 graduate of Andover Newton’s joint PhD program with Boston College. Melissa, who is recognized throughout the extended Andover Newton community, was made an “honorary alumna of Andover Newton” by the Alumni/ae Association Board.

Mark has made abroad and decisive impact on theological studies, both by his teaching in the classroom and by his long list of publications. 

When Andover Newton landed in New Haven, Mark and Melissa were integral to the creation of community. In the early days of Andover Newton’s Emmaus Gathering, which now has over a hundred guests regularly, Melissa made soup in crock pots, arranged tables, and created the welcoming atmosphere for what would become Andover Newton Seminary’s signature social program. Mark and Melissa regularly open their home to students, faculty, and staff for meetings, social gatherings, and holiday parties.

They live out the Gospel message that compels us to acts of generosity and hospitality with humility and compassion. It would be difficult to imagine Andover Newton’s success in the early years of our New Haven program if Mark and Melissa had not been present. The Heims were awarded the Spirit of the Hill during the 2018 Alumni/ae Convocation.