“Ministry Must Be Both Local and Global”: Mussarat Iqbal Reflects on Calling and Intercultural Mission
Mussarat Iqbal describes her journey into ministry as “a lifelong calling shaped by faith, community, and the beautiful diversity of God’s people.”
Raised in a Christian family where “faith and church life were central from the very beginning,” Mussarat’s early experiences formed the foundation for a life of service. With a background in both nursing and theology, she says her vocation has always involved “caring for people’s physical needs as well as their spiritual well-being.”
Today, she serves in a dual capacity: locally as Churchwarden and newly authorised Focal Minister at St James’ Church in Doncaster, and regionally as Northern Mission Enabler for Intercultural Ministry with the Archbishop of York’s team.
“My role allows me to work across dioceses in the North of England, encouraging churches to see diversity not as a challenge, but as a gift,” she explains. “We’re building communities where people from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds can worship and serve together.”
At St James’, Mussarat ministers among English, Urdu and Farsi-speaking congregations. “I’m passionate about nurturing a church that is a place of welcome, prayer, and intercultural fellowship,” she says. Outside of ministry, she enjoys “craft groups, knitting, gardening and any creative project that brings faith into everyday life.”
Studying at St Hild: “Formation as Well as Education”
Mussarat is currently studying at St Hild, a decision she says came from a desire “to deepen my theological understanding and develop ministry skills in a supportive, prayerful environment.”
She was drawn to St Hild’s ethos. “It’s not just about academic study,” she explains. “There’s a real commitment to formation—becoming more like Christ in community.”
As part of the Elizabeth Pathway, she says she has found space to “discern vocation and grow as a leader while honouring my cultural background and experiences.”
Her studies directly inform her ministry: “I’m particularly interested in how theology can shape intercultural leadership, pastoral care, and community transformation. It’s been stretching and life-giving in equal measure.”
Signs of Hope: “Diversity as a Gift of the Spirit”
When asked about encouraging developments in her ministry, Mussarat speaks with excitement.
“One of the clearest signs of God at work is seeing churches in the North beginning to embrace diversity,” she says. “Leaders are recognising that mission today must reflect the multicultural reality of our towns and cities.”
At St James’, recent initiatives such as multilingual worship services and youth activities are “demonstrating how the Gospel transcends language and culture,” she adds. “It reminds me that God is forming us into one family in Christ.”
Surprising Blessings from Study
While she expected academic rigour at St Hild, Mussarat says the biggest blessing has been “the community of fellow students and tutors.”
“Ministry is never a solitary journey,” she reflects. “Conversations with peers from different traditions have broadened my vision of what the Church can be.”
She also values the integration of theory and practice. “Theological insights from class often speak directly to challenges in my ministry—giving fresh confidence and clarity.”
“Trust the Journey God Places Before You”
Massarat’s advice to others discerning ministry is simple: “Trust the journey, even when it feels uncertain.”
“My own path has been full of moments where I had to step forward in faith. Each time, God provided what I needed.”
She believes ministry today must hold together both rootedness and reach. “Serving locally keeps me grounded. Serving regionally reminds me of the wider calling of the Church. Holding both is demanding—but deeply rewarding.”
Her encouragement to prospective students at St Hild?
“Come with open hands and an open heart. Prepare for challenges—but also for unexpected rewards. God uses seasons of learning not just to train us for ministry roles, but to shape us into faithful witnesses wherever we go.”
Mussarat Iqbal is a Churchwarden and Focal Minister, St James’ Church, Doncaster and the Northern Mission Enabler for Intercultural Ministry with the Archbishop of York’s Team.
