Essay Contest
Each convention year, the American Benedictine Forum sponsors an essay contest exploring topics related to the Benedictine tradition and charism. This contest is aimed at inspiring writing among newer community members and is open to monastics and oblates who have made their first profession or oblation within the past 10 years.
The word “essay” derives from the French verb essayer – to try, probe, or test. The Oxford English Dictionary notes that essays offer a sense of inquiry and discovery. They provide concrete evidence of the thinking that has gone into a piece of writing. The best essays spark thinking. They maintain a balance between the objective and the subjective. They inspire and delight the reader as well as inform.
In keeping with the upcoming ABF conference theme, essays should be 3,000–3,200 words in length and incorporate a variety of published or archival sources and personal experience.
The contest is open to professed members and oblates up to 10 years after first profession or oblation.
Submissions:
- Submit a double-spaced essay of 3,000-3,200 words in a Word document.
- Essay should contain no identifying information.
- In your accompanying email please include your name, community, date of first profession or oblation, and mailing address.
Information on the 2026 Essay Contest forthcoming!
Questions regarding the Contest can be emailed to [email protected]
Prize:
- A two-year membership in the American Benedictine Forum
- Waiver of registration and hospitality fees for the upcoming ABF convention
- A book of interest for monastics/oblates
- The possibility of having one’s essay published in a relevant publication