“Hello, my name is Sam. I’m 18 years old and I’m doing an internship this year at Grasmere church and Rydal Hall.

I grew up in Yorkshire, often visiting the Lakes for running and so I am super excited to move here for a whole year. Running has been a huge part of my life and my faith, I feel closer to God when running in the mountains, I run for his glory and enjoy the solitude I get when on mountain tops.

I have also competed for both England and Great Britain in mountain running. Last year I won the Under 20 “Junior Home International” in Ireland, competing for England against teams from the other four countries of the British Isles. In this moment I felt God’s presence so deeply, and I’m so grateful for the legs he has given me to run.

I love running with my brother, my dad and my girlfriend too! As well as running I love anything outdoors: sailing, hiking, swimming, wildcamping, cycling, surfing.

I have just finished my A levels and have a huge passion for Geography. I hope to continue this passion at the University of Cumbria, Ambleside, in September 2026.

I am super excited to explore my faith in this new setting and look forward to meeting you all.”

The internship at St Oswald’s and Rydal Hall will offer a broad experience of church ministry. Sam will work with Grasmere School and hopes to develop youth outreach in the local area. In addition, at Rydal Hall he’ll lead Prayer Services and assist with retreats.

We say a big thank you to the Church Council who have agreed funding and look forward to welcoming Sam on 1st September.