Through the Religious Education class of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, the annual Knights of Columbus Essay Contest is open to all Catholic students in grades eight through twelve. The goal of this contest is to involve young Catholics in civil discourse and instill in them religious and life-affirming values. For this year’s essay contest, we ask the applicant to (1) explain what virtue means to them and (2) discuss how they live and embody the virtue of charity to glorify and reflect the nature of God, in 500-750 words. This embodiment of charity could be the enrichment of the welfare of others at home with family or in the community.

Applicants will be judged on content, grammar, and style. A strong submission should display creativity, imagination, clarity, and conciseness. This is an opportunity for self-exploration, religious growth, and the development of writing and critical thinking skills.

First place winners will be awarded $50.00, and the runner-up for each grade level will be awarded $25.00. Certificates of completion will be provided for all applicants. Applicants can expect a decision from the judges by the end of the year.

Essays must be the student’s original work. The name of the applicant should appear only on the official Knights of Columbus Essay Contest entry form (i.e. the applicant’s name should not be on the same page as the essay). Entries will become the property of the Knights of Columbus and will not be returned.

Submission:
The essay and signed entry form can be submitted electronically as .pdf documents to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To submit a hard copy, please reach out to Russell Tessier via the contact information below to receive further submission instructions.


Any questions can be directed to Russell Tessier at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by calling 225-955-4596.
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