The Catholic Citizenship Essay Contest is open to students in grades 8-12. Any Catholic teenager can enter, whether they attend public, private or parochial schools.

This year’s prompt is to explain the meaning and importance of this quote from former U.S. President and Knights of Columbus member John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural address: “The rights of man come not from the generosity of the state but from the hand of God.”

All essays must be typed, double-spaced, 12-point font in Times New Roman and include the Supreme Essay Participation Form. Word count is 500-750 words.

A winner will be chosen for each grade level (8-12) and awarded a $100 prize.

Contact Jimmy St. Pierre at (225) 290-5911 or jimmy_stpierre@yahooo.com for questions or more info!

The deadline for submissions is Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026.