Young essayists reflect on the ‘call to discipleship’ – in 2022 and beyond

This spring, Brother Martin High School sponsored its second annual “Joy of the Resurrection” essay contest, open to Archdiocese of New Orleans boys and girls in grades 5-7, posing the following questions to the young writers: “Jesus’ death and resurrection transformed his disciples and renewed their commitment to sharing the Gospel message. How are we today, in 2022, called to discipleship? How can we spread the Good News of Jesus in our homes, schools and communities?”

Kids’ Clarion will present the six winners – one boy and one girl from each of the three eligible grade levels – over the next several days. (Please note that some essays were edited for style and length)

7th-grade winner (female division)
Ava Stack, St. Catherine of Siena School

Over the past two years, everything has changed. We have gone on lockdown and been isolated from the rest of the world. We couldn’t go to Mass or worship God in the way that we’ve all grown accustomed to. We had to adapt, and some found that too hard and gave up. But Jesus’ call to discipleship still stands in our homes, schools and communities. Jesus still asks us how we can serve him today, and this is how I plan to do this.

In my home, I am going to try to set a better example for my brother. There is a God in all of us, even if we can’t see it, so treating others with the respect and kindness we would show God himself is really important. I’m an older sister and someone my brother looks up to a lot. In situations, my brother looks to see what I’m doing, and I want to show him that there is always a way to make sure God is doing his good works through me.

In my school, I am going to make an effort to try to be kind to everyone, even on bad days. Everyone has those days where nothing is going right, where we are just in a pit of stress, anxiety and worry. I know that on those days for me, even one person smiling or making an effort to include me can make a huge difference. People don’t realize the positive or negative effect they can have on someone’s day. We can spread the Gospel message by just simply smiling or showing someone that they matter.

Lastly, in my community, I’m going to try to help the less fortunate. I’m very blessed to come from a place where I have to question what I have for dinner, not if I’m having dinner. Not everyone is blessed like that, though. Even little things, like donating to Goodwill or participating in the food drive, can help people. Jesus always preached almsgiving and helped those who needed help.

In conclusion, just take some time to answer the question: What are you going to do to answer the call to Christ?