Alanna Harris serves as the Lead Chaplain at the Canary Wharf Multifaith Chaplaincy. Leading a dedicated team of full-time and volunteer chaplains, she oversees the pastoral care and spiritual support offered to those who live and work on the Canary Wharf estate. Alanna also advises individuals and organisations on ethics, values, and matters of faith as part of her dedication to cultivating an inclusive environment that supports the entire community.
With over a decade of experience in ministry and leadership, Alanna has worked across a variety of sectors, including healthcare and professional chaplaincy. Before joining the chaplaincy, she served as the Anglican Chaplain at Charing Cross Hospital, where she worked within a multifaith NHS team providing essential care to patients, families, and staff. Alanna also held the position of Associate Priest at St Katharine Cree, the Guild Church for Workers in the City of London, where she continues to support the development of workplace chaplaincy.
Alanna’s commitment to ethics, values, and community has been a central theme throughout her career. She has led numerous mission-driven initiatives, including her time as Events and Operations Manager at the think tank Theos, and as Head of Events at the Christian charity Tearfund. Her work in both roles deepened her understanding of how faith influences every aspect of life, from personal relationships to global events, and enhanced her ability to build robust networks of community support.
Born and raised in the UK, Alanna holds a Master’s degree in Theology, Ministry, and Mission from Ridley Hall, Cambridge University. She is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where individuals can explore their spirituality and confront life’s challenges with courage and hope. A firm believer in the importance of community engagement, Alanna is committed to growing the reach and visibility of the Canary Wharf Multifaith Chaplaincy, ensuring that it remains a vital resource for all who reside within the estate.
In her spare time, Alanna enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with her family. She is also an advocate for coaching and leadership development, regularly mentoring and coaching both lay and ordained leaders to help enhance their ministry.
“The Chaplaincy is an essential source of strength for a community in which ethics, values, and spiritual care are central to helping people meet the challenges of modern life. As Lead Chaplain, I hope to bring my passion for community engagement and my experience in pastoral care to grow our reach and ensure that everyone, regardless of faith, knows they have a space where they are heard and supported.”