Benedict Prize of Mönchengladbach

Since the 1960s, the Benedict Prize has been awarded at regular intervals by the Bürgerverein Mönchengladbach e.V. in cooperation with the City of Mönchengladbach, first presented in 1968. The prize was intended to honor individuals who have set standards through active engagement or outstanding achievements in the fields of research, art, or science, and who have rendered exceptional service to the preservation of local heritage and traditions. Due to the dissolution of the Bürgerverein, the prize was awarded for the last time in its previous form in 2010.

In order to continue awarding a “Benedict Prize” in Mönchengladbach in the future, an association was founded in 2013 with the task of presenting the “Benedict Prize of Mönchengladbach” under new framework conditions.

Benedict of Nursia is the patron saint of Europe. Mönchengladbach is located in the heart of Europe and is a Benedictine foundation. For many centuries until the secularization at the beginning of the 19th century, a Benedictine monastery existed in the city, which significantly shaped the coexistence of its people and continues to influence its development to this day.

With its Benedictine heritage and its central location in Europe, the City of Mönchengladbach is a suitable and indeed predestined location for awarding a prize associated with the name Benedict.

Benedict gave his order the rule “ora et labora.” This marked the beginning of an endeavor, successful to this day, to harmonize faith and reason. Against this background of tradition and contemporary relevance, the “Benedict Prize of Mönchengladbach” shall honor individuals whose value-oriented actions stand out in a special way against the backdrop of Christian-Western experience. This is expressed above all in fundamental works and/or deeds—including those of younger people—in science, business, politics, society, and culture that serve as examples for the future.

The prize is independent of religious denomination and political party affiliation.