Brotherhood Banquet Youth Essay Contest

Theme: “Expressions of HOPE & FAITH”

Scripture Focus: Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)
"but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint."

Submission Deadline: April 13, 2026

Submission Categories & Essay Prompts

4th-6th Grade – 100-500 words

Essay Prompt: "Describe something you hope for at home, at school, or in the community"

7th-8th Grade – 300-700 words

Essay Prompt: "How can hope help to unify a team, a family, or community?"

9th-12th Grade – 500 – 1000 words

Essay Prompt: "How can hope and faith help to unify a team, family, or community?"

Criteria

Students in grades 4-12: Public, Private, Charter, and Homeschooled may participate.
There are no geographical or language restrictions.
Eligible members of Brown Chapel may also participate
Email and mail submissions must be submitted by midnight April 13, 2026

Judging

Essays will be evaluated on clarity, creativity and grammar by three judges from various fields.
The identities of the writers will be concealed from the judges. Only the essay title and grade category will be provided to the judges.

Participants

All essay writers will receive a certificate of participation
Winners will be notified April 19, 2026
There will be a monetary award for First, Second, and Third place. (1st place: $200, 2nd place $100, 3rd place $50)
All participants will be invited to the Banquet, but only the 1st place winner in each category will be provide two complimentary tickets.

Questions? Contact brotherhoodbanquet@bcamecy.org or call 734-482-7050