Catholic Diocese of Richmond
The Office of Black Catholics, in collaboration with the Office of Catholic Schools, sponsors the Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Contest each year. This year, the topic was a quote from Martin Luther King Jr. that states “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in times of comfort and convenience, but where he stands in times of challenge and controversy.” Eight Catholic High Schools entered the contest and out of 29 submissions, three were selected for the distinction of first, second and third place.
The 1st place winner is Alessandra Paras from Roanoke Catholic School in Roanoke, Virginia. The 2nd place winner is Gabriel Slate from Benedictine College Preparatory School in Richmond, Virginia. The 3rd place winner is Kakele Orchowski from Holy Cross Regional Catholic School in Lynchburg, Virginia.
The students will be officially recognized and awarded during the Vigil Mass at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart on Saturday, January 19, 2019. His Excellency, Most Reverend Barry C. Knestout, D.D., Bishop of Richmond will be presiding over the Mass that evening.
The Office of Black Catholics would like to thank the Office of Catholic Schools and the essay review committee for their collaboration on this project. Their time and dedication has made this contest a great success!
The office would also like to thank the students who submitted their essays for review. They are the future and will be carrying on the voice of Martin Luther King Jr. for generations to come as prime examples of diversity in adversity and integrity and dignity in the Spirit of God in the world.
Please view Link of TV Report on this particular event
