Barb Crist grew up in Humboldt, Iowa, received an executive secretarial degree at Iowa Central Community College, and then worked while her husband (and high school sweetheart) attended Iowa State University. She spent more than 17 years as a stay-at-home mom raising their three children and offering childcare in their home.  She and her husband, Dean, enjoy family time with their son, daughters and son-in-laws and three grandchildren. ‘Nana and Papa camp’ is available quite frequently as they realize grandchildren are the reason why God has given us children. They both enjoy sunny vacation spots and Iowa State University sporting events.

Barb volunteered in many ministry and leadership areas of churches before coming to Hope. When the Crist family began worshipping at Hope in 1998, she began volunteering her administrative gifts in discipleship, care and mission opportunities.  The fall of 1999 Barb became the Adult Discipleship Coordinator at Hope. As Hope has grown, that part-time staff position has now become a full-time position overseeing an entire Adult Ministry team comprised of Alpha, Connections, Discipleship, Men, Women, Marriage & Parenting, 50+ and Singles ministries. "Watching God build a passionate team of servant leaders who literally care for thousands of adults through Hope and seeing lives being transformed and growing in their relationship with Jesus Christ is what this ‘kingdom building’ is all about!”