Background:  The Knights of Columbus was founded in 1882 based on three principles:  Charity, Unity and Fraternity.  Since 2018, K of C members have donated $100s of million and provided over 100 million hours of service to Charity.

Essay Theme:  Charity is the first of the core principles of the Knights of Columbus.  Our founder, Blessed Fr. Michael McGivney, practiced many different forms of Charity to include time, talent, and works of mercy.  How can you, as a young Catholic, practice and promote Charity within your family, parish, school, and our community?

• Who may enter:  OLV parishioners in the 8th Grade at ANY school (including home-schooled)
• Submission period: Saturday, January 27-Monday, February 9, 2026 (closes at Midnight)
• Submit your essay and any questions to:  essay@olvnorthville.net
• Formats:  Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx) or, if handwritten, scanned as PDF (.pdf)
• Word Count: 500 words, maximum

IMPORTANT:  In your email, please include Your name, school, grade, the name of your parent(s), address, and telephone number.

Essays will be judged on:

• Thorough examination of the theme
• Style
• Grammar, spelling, and composition   

PRIZES!

1st  Place:    $500 ($250 cash and $250 toward the charity of your choice)
2nd Place:   $300 ($150 cash and $150 toward the charity of your choice)
3rd Place:   $200 ($100 cash and $100 toward the charity of your choice)

Note:  Submitted essays must be the sole and original creation of the declared contest participant.  Essays once submitted become the property of OLV’s Knights of Columbus.  Winners will be notified and asked to propose the charity of their choice when prizes are awarded.

Submission Period and Contact:  Saturday, January 24 through Monday, February 9, 2026 (contest closes at midnight).  Email to essay@olvnorthville.net.