Isaiah 58 Ministries Welcomes New Development Manager

In February, Isaiah 58 Ministries in St. Louis welcomed Dr. Teresa Crist as its new full-time development manager.

Crist brings a unique blend of academic scholarship, denominational leadership, and deep faith to her work. She earned her Ph.D. in religion and theological studies through the University of Denver and Iliff School of Theology Joint Doctoral Program, where her research focused on cultural Christianity and the ways the church can faithfully confront and reconcile its historical ties to empire. Her work invites Christian communities to imagine new ways of living out the gospel with greater humility, justice, and compassion.

Before joining Isaiah 58 Ministries, Crist taught at the university level in both St. Louis and Denver, helping students explore theology, history, and the role of faith in today’s world. She also served the wider church through many years of leadership on the Board of Christian Unity and Interfaith Ministries (CUIM) for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), reflecting her lifelong commitment to building relationships across traditions and communities.

As development manager, Crist oversees Isaiah 58 Ministries’ fundraising efforts and donor stewardship. She is already helping strengthen the systems and relationships that make its ministry possible. She ensures that every gift is honored, and every donor understands the tremendous impact their generosity has on Isaiah 58 Ministries’ neighbors.

When she’s not at Isaiah 58 Ministries, Crist enjoys soaking up sunshine, reading, lifelong learning, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.