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:  Unity is one of the core principles of the Knights of Columbus.  In fact, our founder, Blessed Fr. Michael McGivney, made it the first principle.  Knights are called upon to foster unity in their families, parishes, and communities.  How do you foster unity in these places?  Remember unity has more to do with promoting and maintaining relationships than it does with agreement.

• Who may enter:  OLV parishioners in the 8th Grade at ANY school (including home-schooled)
• Submission period: Saturday, January 27-Monday, February 12, 2024 (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 (which is 8th, right?), 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:   $150 ($75 cash and $75 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 the week of February 26, and asked to propose the charity of their choice when prizes are awarded.

Submission Period and Contact:  Saturday, January 27 through Monday, February 12, 2024 (contest closes at midnight).  Email to essay@olvnorthville.net.