Columban Schools Competition on Jubilee counting down

The Columban Schools Competition 'Jubilee: Pilgrims of Hope' has been receiving entries from schools across Britain and Ireland. The Catholic Education Service in England and Wales suggests it could be part of secondary schools' "preparations for the 2025 Jubilee celebration."

There is now a countdown to the closing date in a month's time.

The competition is targeted at students aged between 13-18 years old. Encouraging creativity and faith engagement with issues in the world today, it welcomes both written and image entries until 7 February 2025, with winners being announced on 10 March 2025. Cash prizes will be awarded to the winning entrants and the first prize is an impressive £300.

Young people are invited to highlight one community or group bringing hope in the world today. This might be one they are part of or one that inspires them. The community/group chosen should act in some way for the common good. The Columbans are delighted that Ruth Gledhill of The Tablet and Jo Siedlecka of Independent Catholic News, are among the judges in Britain.

In his role as Columban Justice and Peace Education Worker in Britain, James Trewby visits young people in schools and sixth forms and runs workshops, retreats and assemblies to promote justice, peace and the integrity of creation. He explains: "I'm delighted that the Columban Schools Media Competition this year focuses on the theme of Jubilee, linking into the Jubilee Year in 2025 declared by Pope Francis. The Columbans are keen to nurture the student voice and provide an opportunity for young people to explore positive initiatives on the theme."

A core aspect of Columban mission is justice, peace and ecology. The biblical Jubilee Year involved the cancelling of debts, and a period of rest for people and the environment. Poor and vulnerable communities were given the opportunity for a fresh start on a more equal footing, and that need is there in today's world. Internationally, Columban Missionaries support inspirational communities, assisting migrants and asylum seekers, caring for the environment, and calling for Jubilee debt cancellation.

This is the eighth annual Columban Schools Media Competition. Past themes have focused on migrants, climate change, throwaway culture, racism, 21st Century changemakers, peacemaking and biodiversity.

Students, teachers and parents will find the Columban Competition website an essential resource. It includes information on the theme and details on submission of entries and a helpful FAQ page. See: www.columbancompetition.com/

Introductory Video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=wK70Jh-gKEA