DESCRIPTION
Christianity Today's series This is Our City is documenting the "common-good decisions" of Christians who aspire to make a difference in their cities and the lives of their citizens. Our aim is to inspire others to look at the actions of these individuals as models for common-good decisions in their own communities. In conjunction with the series, CT is conducting an essay competition for the most compelling stories of ways in which our readers, or Christians they know, are making a similar difference in their communities. We are especially looking for stories about Christian involvement in institutions—business, government, education, media—where Christians combine clear faith-based commitment with partnership with others in a diverse and pluralistic public environment. We are also keenly interested in the virtues—the habits of heart and character (e.g., diligence, gratitude, chastity)—that animate lasting commitments to the common good.
GUIDELINES
The ideal length for essays is 1,000 words, with a maximum length of 2,500 words. The essays must describe specific choices you or those whom you know have made and actions and consequences that followed from those choices. In addition, essays must describe at least one virtue that either (a) motivates the actions you or another are taking, or (b) has been strengthened in those affected by your or another's involvement in public life. If the common-good decisions were directly inspired by our series, tell us how in your essay. Twenty essays will be awarded prizes of $1,000. All winning essays will be featured in future issues of CT or online at ChristianityToday.com. The deadline is October 31. Please send essays to connect@thisisourcity.org.