Duke Divinity School has announced a new Certificate in Faith-Rooted Advocacy and Conflict Transformation. The certificate—which can be earned alongside the MDiv (residential and hybrid), the MTS, or the MA in Christian Practice degrees—is designed for students who are interested in working in advocacy, public witness, peacebuilding, and reconciliation.

The certificate aims to cultivate leaders who seek to embody just peace in local faith communities and broader society. Proceeding from the conviction that faith is a dynamic force that can shape the vision and practice of advocacy and conflict transformation, this certificate recognizes that public witness, advocacy, repair, healing, and reconciliation emerge from a deep trust in God’s ongoing work of renewal, inviting participants to embody hope, pursue just peace, and cultivate relationships that reflect the reconciling love of Christ.

“The Certificate in Faith-rooted Advocacy and Conflict Transformation invites students into a formative journey of discerning how God’s reconciling work takes shape in the world,” said Nina Balmaceda, the certificate director and Irene and William McCutchen Associate Professor of the Practice of Reconciliation. “Rooted in Scripture, nourished by spiritual practices, and shaped through conflict transformation methods, this certificate invites participants to understand advocacy for the common good and conflict transformation and reconciliation as vital expressions of Christian discipleship. It calls students into a way of being that reflects God’s compassion and just peace, restoring right relationship with neighbor and creation."

The requirements for the certificate include academic courses and attendance at gatherings convened by the Center for Reconciliation. Students will also have the opportunity for practical engagement across the Divinity School, the wider university, surrounding communities, and global alumni networks.

Declarations for this certificate can be made starting in August of this year. Additional details about the certificate will also be available at that time.