The Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh sponsors an annual event commemorating the life and work of Absalom Jones (1746-1818), who was the first African-American priest ordained in the Episcopal Church of the United States of America. Absalom Jones Day 2011 will take place on Saturday, February 5th at Trinity Cathedral, 328 Sixth Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15222.
In conjunction with this event, the diocesan Commission on Racism is sponsoring the fifth annual Frank E. Bolden Literary Contest. This contest, on the subject of racism, is named for the late Frank Bolden, a noted Pittsburgh-based African-American journalist. It is open to all middle and high school students. The winning entry will receive a $100 U.S. Savings Bond to be presented at the Absalom Jones Day 2011 celebration.
This year's theme, People of Faith – Ambassadors of Peace, superbly exemplifies Absalom Jones' faith and ministry. The Commission on Racism invites all young people to submit a literary work that describes an example of the theme, People of Faith – Ambassadors of Peace, on racial issues either from the past, present or the future.
The maximum length of entries is 200 words. Entries should be either typed double-spaced on a single sheet of paper or submitted by e-mail. Submission deadline is January 22, 2011. Entries may be essays, poetry, fiction, etc., and will be judged on originality, clarity, and composition. Entries should include the name, age, school and grade level of the submitter, along with his/her home address, phone number, e-mail address, hobbies and interests, extra-curricular activities, and plans for the future.
If there are any questions, please contact Al Mann at 412-661-5947 or Nancy Travis Bolden at 412-683-8888.
Entries should be submitted to:
Essay Contest
c/o D. Powell
P.O. Box 419
Oakmont, PA 15139
or by e-mail to: dpowell2010@hotmail.com