Seeds of Peace
Community of Christ will host the Peace Forum from 16–18 October 2026 at the Temple in Independence, Missouri, USA. The event, themed “Seeds of Peace: Environmental Justice and Action,” builds on the tradition of the International Peace Colloquy, offering worship, learning, and community engagement. All are welcome!
Education on critical justice issues
Worship grounded in faith
Creative expression and community building
A call to action for change
Preparation
As we journey toward the 2026 Peace Forum, we’ll explore peace by reading the book Pursuing Peace: 365 Prayers for a More Peaceful World. Purchase your copy today!
Awards
International Peace Award
Bill McKibben
Bill McKibben is a renowned environmental justice advocate and the 2026 Community of Christ International Peace Award recipient. His groundbreaking book, The End of Nature (1989), was the first on climate change for a general audience, translated into 24 languages. With over 20 books and contributions to The New Yorker, he is a leading voice on environmental issues. As co-founder of 350.org, McKibben has driven global climate campaigns, opposed oil pipelines, and advanced fossil fuel divestment. A Schumann Distinguished Scholar at Middlebury College, he has earned the Gandhi Peace Prize and Right Livelihood Award.
Human Rights Award
Randie Cross Marsh
Randie Cross Marsh is a dedicated human rights advocate whose lifelong commitment to justice earned her recognition from Community of Christ. After serving as Executive Director of an Ohio-based nonprofit aiding HIV-positive individuals in Kenya, she founded Hand in Hand Kenya, a Cincinnati-based 501(c)3. Since 2006, Randie has made 30 trips to Kenya, collaborating with Maisha Girls Safe House, which supports 60 girls under 19 and their babies, providing food, education, medical care, and emotional support. Her work combats the stigma of AIDS and gender-based violence, embodying a Christ-like pursuit of peace for the marginalized.
Human Rights Award
Jimmy, Kathy, Jared, and Nancy Munson
The Munson family, Jimmy, Kathy, Jared, and Nancy, has led Chattanooga Community of Christ’s urban ministry for 20 years, creating a safe haven for those escaping poverty and crime in central Chattanooga. Their work supports hundreds of children, teens, and adults weekly with food, safety, and emotional care. Recognized by the Chattanooga Police Chief, City Council, and Court System for reducing crime and aiding the disadvantaged, the Munsons advocate for minority ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ individuals, and houseless persons. Their ministry reflects Community of Christ's commitment to human rights and the inherent worth of all.
About
Community of Christ, a faith movement dedicated to peace, will host the Peace Forum from 16–18 October 2026 at the Temple in Independence, Missouri, USA. Building on the International Peace Colloquy’s legacy since 1993, this event will present the International Peace Award and Human Rights Award while fostering dialogue, worship, creative expression, and transformative action.
The 2026 theme, “Seeds of Peace: Environmental Justice and Action,” highlights climate justice and the role of faith in addressing environmental challenges. Led by Shandra Newcom, Peace Minister with The Center for Living Water and Temple Ministries, the Peace Forum welcomes all to engage in this sacred call to peace.