Pastor Christopher V. Pryor Honored with 2026 Community Peace Award
On Friday, March 27, 2026, Pastor Christopher V. Pryor, President and CEO of Victorious Community Development (VCD), was surprised with a 2026 Community Peace Award during the fourth annual Peace Symposium hosted by the Mridha International Institute of Peace and Happiness at Saginaw Valley State University.
The recognition honors Pastor Pryor’s ongoing efforts to promote peace and stability throughout the Saginaw community, with a focus on empowering youth, strengthening families and creating pathways for growth and opportunity.
The award presentation was part of a larger gathering that brought together approximately 100 participants for a morning focused on reflection, dialogue and community-building. The symposium featured discussions on a range of topics, including inner peace, family relationships, workplace culture, environmental harmony and global peace.
A lineup of distinguished speakers guided those conversations, each offering a unique perspective on how peace can be cultivated at every level of society. Dr. George Grant Jr., president of Saginaw Valley State University, emphasized the importance of being present and engaged within the community. Mark Maxwell explored strategies for fostering peace in professional environments, while Barb Smith addressed family dynamics and highlighted the importance of suicide prevention. Dr. Debasish Mridha shared insights on inner peace, stressing that lasting change begins within the individual.
Pastor Pryor’s recognition stood out as a reflection of years of hands-on work across Saginaw. Through both Victorious Believers Ministries and VCD, he has focused on mentoring youth, organizing community initiatives and promoting faith-based approaches to conflict resolution and unity. His leadership continues to play a role in shaping programs that aim to make Saginaw a place where residents can live, grow and prosper.
In addition to Pastor Pryor, other honorees included Dr. Dennis Martin, recognized for his continued support of MIIPH and contributions to peace-focused initiatives, and Barb Smith of the Suicide Resource and Response Network, honored for her dedication to supporting individuals and families facing crisis.
The recognition of leaders like Pastor Pryor serve as a reminder that peace is not an abstract idea, but a daily commitment built through consistent action, community engagement and a shared vision for a stronger future.
