Celebrating the Hidden Contributors Behind the New Testament
Throughout the history of Christianity, the New Testament has been attributed mainly to well-known figures such as Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and Paul. But what about those whose names do not appear in the spotlight? Behind these prominent authors lie numerous unnamed coauthors and collaborators whose contributions have shaped the biblical texts. This vital aspect of authorship is what drives the compelling narrative of Candida Moss's groundbreaking book, titled "God's Ghostwriters: Enslaved Christians and the Making of the Bible." This remarkable study is the honored recipient of the 2026 Grawemeyer Award in Religion.
The Unsung Labor of Enslaved Individuals
According to Tyler Mayfield, the director of the Grawemeyer Religion Award and Associate Dean at the Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Moss's book emphasizes the often-overlooked contributions of enslaved individuals who engaged in the arduous work of scribes, secretaries, and copyists in ancient Roman society. Moss reveals the extraordinary value of these collaborators who helped to produce early manuscripts of the Bible, shedding light on their vital but undervalued roles over centuries. "God's Ghostwriters" not only opens a discussion about authorship in biblical texts but also encourages deeper exploration of the marginalized voices throughout history.
Moss's Contribution to Theology
Candida Moss serves as the Edward Cadbury professor of theology at the University of Birmingham, UK, where her research focuses on the essential roles played by individuals often left unnamed in history. By exposing their contributions, she encourages scholars and believers alike to discover new meaning in the biblical narratives. Moss expressed her gratitude upon receiving the Grawemeyer Award in Religion, stating, "To be counted among such an extraordinary and visionary group of previous recipients is both humbling and inspiring. This honor affirms the importance of telling fuller, more honest stories about the people whose labor created the texts that have shaped our world."
Outstanding Recognition and Influence
Previously, Moss received the John Templeton Award for Theological Promise and is recognized for her thoughtful contributions to major media outlets like CBS News, National Geographic, and The New York Times. Her insights into the intersection of faith, history, and theology resonate with a diverse audience, broadening the understanding of religious narratives.
The Role of the Grawemeyer Award
The Grawemeyer Award for Religion is awarded annually to honor significant contributions to religious and spiritual understanding. As part of her recognition, Moss will present a public lecture at the Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, where she will formally receive her award from the seminary and the University of Louisville on a date to come.
Understanding the Grawemeyer Legacy
The Grawemeyer Awards, established by business executive and philanthropist H. Charles Grawemeyer at the University of Louisville in 1984, honor the power of creative ideas to influence culture across various fields, including music composition, world order, education, religion, and psychology. Each year, nominees are evaluated by academics and community members, ensuring that the selected ideas are both innovative and accessible.
Financial Support for Innovative Ideas
The winners are recognized in December, with a formal ceremony held the following April. Each award recipient receives a monetary prize of $100,000 that they may utilize to further develop and promote their groundbreaking ideas. This support underscores the importance of innovation in improving societal understanding and fostering new perspectives.
Final Thoughts on the Award
The acknowledgment bestowed upon Candida Moss for her work in "God's Ghostwriters" is a testament to the need for inclusivity in historical narratives, particularly in areas pertaining to the New Testament and early Christian writings. The Grawemeyer Award in Religion seeks to recognize and amplify these essential conversations, allowing history to be told with a fuller, more inclusive perspective.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is "God's Ghostwriters" about?
"God's Ghostwriters" discusses the contributions of enslaved individuals to the manuscripts of the Bible, highlighting their undervalued roles in biblical authorship.
Who is Candida Moss?
Candida Moss is the Edward Cadbury professor of theology at the University of Birmingham and a recognized scholar known for her work on early Christianity.
What is the Grawemeyer Award?
The Grawemeyer Award is an annual recognition granted for significant achievements in various fields, including religion, and includes a monetary prize.
When will Candida Moss receive her award?
The award will be formally presented in a ceremony at the Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary during a date to be determined.
What impact does the Grawemeyer Award have?
The award encourages innovative ideas and provides financial support to recipients to develop their impactful contributions to society.
