The Culture of Life Studies Program’s annual pro-life essay contest began in 2017 and is now held annually during Respect Life Month in October. Cosponsored by the Institute for Excellence in Writing, this contest, traditionally for middle schoolers and older, gives children the opportunity to share their knowledge and thoughts about pro-life topics. And it’s a great way for them to win incredible prizes!
2024 Essay PROMPTS
Middle School
Every baby is an unrepeatable miracle whose life begins at the moment the sperm fertilizes the egg. Each has a soul and is created by God, and when we talk with others about this baby, it helps to shine a light on her uniqueness. Choose one stage of a preborn baby’s development (first trimester, second, or third). Explain the development in this stage (what the baby can do, what he looks like, etc.). Then address three concrete ways you can help others see the humanity of the baby in this stage.
Write 500 words responding to the essay prompt.
High School
Human beings are unique, special, and unrepeatable miracles of God created in His image. Choose one pro-life topic (abortion, IVF, euthanasia, etc.) and explain what it is, why it is a threat to human beings, and how, in your school or community, you will speak out against this practice, defend the vulnerable, and teach the value of every person.
Write 500 words responding to the essay prompt.
Congratulations to our 2024 winners!
Middle School
1st Place: Sarah Roberts
“Protect All Babies“
$250, The Beauty of the Developing Human Being, publication in Celebrate Life Magazine, publication on CLSP website, pro-life goodies, 100% pro-life T-shirt, Our Lady of Guadalupe one decade rosary for the preborn
2nd Place: Felipe Rafael Castillo
“Celebrating the Miracle of Human Life“
$150, The Beauty of the Developing Human Being, publication on CLSP website, pro-life goodies, Our Lady of Guadalupe one decade rosary for the preborn
3rd Place: Joseph Lynch
“How to Help and Defend the Preborn in the Second Trimester“
$75, The Beauty of the Developing Human Being, publication on CLSP website, pro-life goodies
Honorable Mention: Molly Clare Lange
“Protecting the Baby“
$25, publication on CLSP website
High School
1st Place: Christine Novelero
“Abortion: Fundamental Right or Egregious Wrong?“
$250, St. Ignatius: Cura Personalis, publication in Celebrate Life Magazine, publication on CLSP website, pro-life goodies, 100% pro-life T-shirt, Our Lady of Guadalupe one decade rosary for the preborn
2nd Place: Abigail Richardson
“IVF: The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing“
$150, St. Ignatius: Cura Personalis, publication on CLSP website, pro-life goodies, Our Lady of Guadalupe one decade rosary for the preborn
3rd Place: Mia Uhlschmidt
“Contraception and the War on Human Dignity“
$75, St. Ignatius: Cura Personalis, publication on CLSP website, pro-life goodies
Honorable Mention: Gretchen Anderson
“Be the Light“
$25, publication on CLSP website