Hannah Grist

Early Life and Family Background

Hannah Grist (née Long) was born on December 16, 1994, in the historic city of Chichester, to parents Ian and Jane Long. She spent her formative years in this charming cathedral city, known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Hannah is the second daughter in her family, with an older sister, Naomi, who has always been a significant influence and support in her life. The Long family moved to Malvern during Hannah’s late teens, a picturesque town nestled at the foot of the Malvern Hills, providing a serene backdrop for her final years of adolescence.

Education and Early Experiences

From an early age, Hannah displayed a keen interest in the arts and humanities. She pursued her passion for performance arts, acquiring various qualifications in Music Theatre, Singing, and Ballet. This multifaceted talent led her to Oxford Brookes University, where she studied Film Studies. Her academic journey at Oxford Brookes was marked by both intellectual growth and a deepening of her creative skills, laying a strong foundation for her future endeavors.

During her gap year, Hannah joined World Horizons, an international Christian mission organization. This experience was transformative, exposing her to different cultures and the global Christian community. She participated in various missions, contributing to community projects and engaging in faith-based outreach. This period was crucial in shaping her worldview and reinforcing her commitment to serving others.

Professional Journey and Ministry Work

After completing her degree, Hannah embarked on an internship at St Aldate’s Church in Oxford, a vibrant and active church community. Here, she worked closely with the homeless, a role that underscored her compassion and dedication to social justice. Her work at St Aldate’s was both challenging and rewarding, providing her with firsthand experience in ministry and community service.

Hannah’s next professional chapter took her to Commonwealth House, a postgraduate student accommodation in Oxford, where she served as the warden. This role involved providing pastoral care and support to students, many of whom were navigating the complexities of postgraduate life away from home. Her tenure at Commonwealth House was marked by her ability to foster a supportive and inclusive community, further honing her leadership and counseling skills.

It was during her time at St Aldate’s Church that Hannah met Ben Grist, who would later become her husband. Their shared commitment to faith and community service laid a strong foundation for their relationship. The couple married in 2023, a joyous occasion that marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives together.

Current Roles and Contributions

Following their marriage, Hannah and Ben moved to Goole, where Ben took up a role as curate at St John’s Church. Hannah quickly integrated into the community, taking on multiple roles that reflect her diverse talents and passions. She began teaching Music Theatre, sharing her love for the performing arts with students and helping them develop their own talents.

In addition to her teaching role, Hannah joined the Diocese of Sheffield as the Ministry Experience Scheme Coordinator. This position involves overseeing a program designed to provide young adults with hands-on ministry experience, nurturing their spiritual growth and leadership skills. Hannah’s work with the Diocese of Sheffield has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of church leaders, and her innovative approach has been widely recognized.

At St John’s Church, Hannah is an active and valued member of the worship team. Her musical talents and deep faith combine to create powerful worship experiences that resonate with the congregation. Leading worship allows Hannah to connect with others on a spiritual level, fostering a sense of community and shared devotion.

Personal Interests and Hobbies

Outside of her professional and ministry commitments, Hannah has a wide range of personal interests that enrich her life and those around her. She is an avid reader, particularly enjoying books that explore themes of faith, social justice, and personal growth. Hannah also has a passion for the outdoors, often spending her free time exploring the beautiful countryside around Goole with Ben and their friends.

Her love for the performing arts extends beyond her teaching role. Hannah regularly participates in local theatre productions, both as a performer and a director. These activities provide her with a creative outlet and a way to engage with the broader community.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Hannah is committed to continuing her work in ministry and community service. She aims to expand her role within the Diocese of Sheffield, developing new programs that support young people in their spiritual journeys. Hannah also hopes to pursue further studies in theology and pastoral care, enhancing her ability to serve and support her community.

As a couple, Hannah and Ben have a shared vision of creating an inclusive and welcoming church environment that meets the spiritual and practical needs of their congregation. They are both passionate about outreach and hope to develop initiatives that address issues such as homelessness, social inequality, and mental health within their community.

Conclusion

Hannah Grist’s journey is a testament to her unwavering faith, compassion, and dedication to serving others. From her early days in Chichester to her current roles in Goole, Hannah has consistently demonstrated a commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those around her. Her diverse talents, combined with her deep sense of purpose, make her an inspiring figure within her community and beyond. As she continues to grow and evolve in her ministry, there is no doubt that Hannah will leave a lasting legacy of faith, service, and love.