Reverend Carol Rashid: A Journey of Faith and Service
Born in Leeds, Revd Carol Rashid spent most of her childhood in Conisbrough near Doncaster. Growing up in a loving family with three siblings—an older brother and sister, and a younger brother—Carol’s creativity shone early. Regularly winning art prizes in secondary school, she had a moment of fame in the 'Look North' TV program, interviewed by Barry Chambers for writing a children’s book. Her creative streak continued into adulthood, with several pieces of poetry published over the years.
Carol's life has been a tapestry of family and community service. Married for 36 years, she has two sons and 12 grandchildren, though she sadly has lost contact with six of them. Her ex-husband passed away just days before she received the news of her recommendation for ordination training.
Professionally, Carol has a rich history. She ran a residential and nursing home for the elderly, achieving 'Investors in People' status and employing 140 staff across three shifts. For her service to the community, the Gideon Society presented her with a gold-leaf leather-bound Bible. Carol also worked as an assistant chaplain in a prison, became a qualified therapeutic counsellor specialising in bereavement support, and served as a Macmillan Cancer Information and Support worker linked with a hospice.
An adventurer at heart, Carol has climbed Mount Sinai in Egypt and more recently, Cat Bells in Cumbria. Her current passions include creating scripture-based poetry, journalling, and scripture-inspired artwork, often showcased at charitable events and church services.
Carol's journey into ministry began in 2008 when she became a licensed Pastoral Worker, leading to her becoming a licensed Reader in 2017. Though she first felt called to ordained ministry in 2011, personal circumstances delayed her pursuit.
After a year on the discernment pathway starting in 2021, she was recommended for ordination training in July 2022. Carol completed a two-year programme of theological education, training, and formation at St Hild College Sheffield, with residentials at St Hild Mirfield, graduating in June 2024. She chose St Hild for its diverse range of traditions and students, which enriched her learning experience. In her final year, she served as one of the elected ordinand lead students.
Her sending church is St. Lawrence in Hatfield, Doncaster, and she will serve her curacy at St John’s Church in Goole. With an already established funeral ministry, Carol is passionate about engaging with occasional offices and life events. Her deep-rooted calling is to serve those in need and shine a light for Christ in all she does. Looking ahead, she eagerly anticipates her priesting next year and presiding at Holy Communion.
Carol highly recommends St Hild to any alumni, considering further study. She praises the approachable and knowledgeable staff and the personalised learning pathways that cater to each student's needs. ‘St Hild is a wonderful and supportive community. It only takes a step of faith to pursue a worthwhile, and fulfilling, journey into the future.’
