Peacebuilding Award
About the Award
The North Carolina Conference Peacebuilding Award, administered through Connectional Ministries, honors one clergyperson and one layperson who exemplify Christ-centered peacebuilding rooted in Wesleyan theology, the Book of Discipline, and the Social Principles of The United Methodist Church.
This award recognizes individuals whose faith is lived out through ministries of reconciliation, justice, nonviolence, inclusivity, and anti-racism—reflecting the United Methodist commitment to personal holiness, social holiness, and connectional ministry.
Peacebuilding in the United Methodist tradition is not optional work; it is a faithful expression of discipleship and a public witness to God’s reconciling love in the world.
Nominees must be:
- A clergyperson, layperson, or youth within the North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church
- Actively engaged in peacebuilding through the local church, extension ministry, or community
- Demonstrating alignment with Wesleyan theology, the Social Principles, and connectional values
Applications are due April 30, 2026.
Award Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate the following qualities and commitments:
1. Faithful Theological Witness
- Embodies Wesleyan theology through personal and social holiness
- Lives out faith active in love through peace, justice, and reconciliation
- Upholds the Social Principles of The United Methodist Church
2. Active Engagement in Peacebuilding
- Practices and promotes conflict transformation and reconciliation
- Engages in justice advocacy addressing systemic issues such as violence, racism, militarism, and human rights
- Reflects the goals of Peace with Justice and connectional ministry
3. Community Engagement
- Leads or participates in ministries addressing root causes of conflict
- Contributes to sustainable peace within church and community contexts
- Supports educational or formational efforts that promote peacebuilding
4. Leadership and Mentorship
- Models Christ-centered peacebuilding in word and action
- Inspires and equips others within the church and wider community
- Mentors clergy and laity in nonviolence, reconciliation, and justice-seeking
5. Commitment to Inclusivity and Anti-Racism
- Affirms the sacred worth of all people
- Promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Actively engages in anti-racism work and advocates for marginalized communities