#United States #Louisville #Grawemeyer Award #God's Ghostwriters #Candida Moss

UofL's Groundbreaking Grawemeyer Award

The University of Louisville (UofL) has announced that Candida Moss has been honored with the prestigious 2026 Grawemeyer Award in Religion for her provocative work, "God's Ghostwriters Enslaved Christians and the Making of the Bible." This recognition reveals the significance of often overlooked contributors to biblical texts and raises critical questions about authorship in the New Testament.

Shedding Light on Unknown Contributions

For centuries, figures like Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and Paul have been credited with the New Testament's authorship. However, as Moss' research elucidates, these prominent figures had many anonymous collaborators whose contributions have been largely ignored by history. Moss detailed how these collaborators, often enslaved individuals, were essential to producing early biblical manuscripts. The work they contributed is now coming to the forefront in discussions about authorship and textual integrity, challenging long-held assumptions in theological circles.

In her book, Moss addresses the plight of those who toiled behind the scenes—scribes, secretaries, and copyists—whose valuable contributions have been overshadowed by the names of those placed in the limelight. The acknowledgment of their labor brings a fuller understanding of biblical texts, urging scholars and believers to consider the marginalized voices that helped shape scriptural narratives.

The Grawemeyer Award's Shared Commitment

As stated by Tyler Mayfield, Director of the Grawemeyer Religion Award and Associate Dean at the Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Moss’ insights challenge traditional narratives and create a new dialogue between ancient texts and contemporary understandings of faith. This perspective resonates powerfully in today’s conversations about equity, representation, and the re-evaluation of historical contexts.

Moss expressed her gratitude for receiving this esteemed award, stating, "I am profoundly honored and deeply moved to receive the Grawemeyer Award in Religion for 'God's Ghostwriters.' To be counted among such an extraordinary and visionary group of previous recipients—scholars whose work has shaped the field—is both humbling and inspiring." She emphasized the importance of acknowledging those whose labor contributed to the biblical texts that continue to influence millions.

The Broader Impact of the Grawemeyer Awards

The Grawemeyer Awards, established by business executive and philanthropist H. Charles Grawemeyer in 1984, highlight innovative ideas that positively impact society. Each year, the awards celebrate contributions across various fields, including education, psychology, music composition, and, of course, religion, with each winning individual receiving a $100,000 prize. Moss's work emphasizes the awards' value in recognizing transformative ideas that foster deeper understanding and respect for diverse narratives within our culture.

Looking Ahead

Moss is set to present a public lecture detailing her research at the Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary on April 16, 2026, where she will officially accept the Grawemeyer Award. Her ongoing work not only enriches theological scholarship but also paves the way for future discussions surrounding authorship, representation, and the critical examination of historical narratives.

With this recognition, Moss inspires a movement towards inclusivity within religious studies, particularly in honoring the contributions of those who have historically been left out of the conversation. Her recognition through the Grawemeyer Award serves as a catalyst for further exploration and dialogue about the untold stories within our collective spiritual heritage.