Ecumenical Christian Ministries director receives Peace and Justice Award

The Rev. Thad Holcombe, director of Ecumenical Christian Ministries, is this year’s recipient of the Lawrence Coalition for Peace and Justice’s Tom and Anne Moore Peace and Justice Award.

“He’s invested in the community with all his heart and soul,” said Christine Smith, coordinator of the coalition. “The ECM — both the building and the organization — are just so open and giving to the community.”

Holcombe said he was honored to receive the award.

“The call is always there to do more and more. I hope I’m up to that award,” said Holcombe, adding that he respected the organization for its work.

Holcombe will receive the award at a ceremony at 7 p.m. May 12 at the ECM building, 1204 Oread Ave. The presentation will be followed by a panel discussion featuring Kansas University faculty members discussing revolutionary changes in North Africa. It is free and open to the public, and refreshments will be available.

This is the 18th year the award has been presented, Smith said. It has been given both to people and organizations, and can be won only once.

Previous recipients include artist David Loewenstein; Loring Henderson, director of the Lawrence Community Shelter; and Audio-Reader, KU’s reading service for people with visual impairments.