Advanced Competitions

Photography is an advanced level competition in Mahragan El-Keraza; enrolment and successfully competing in the core competitions is a prerequisite. The goal of the Photography Competition is to encourage gifted Coptic children and Youth to integrate this form of art and creativity into spiritual fellowship and provide an opportunity for them to be recognized for their efforts.

GUIDELINES AND SPECIFIC DETAILS:

1. The minimum age to participate in the photography competition is 4th Grade. The competition is open to the following age group categories: 
   • 4th & 5th Grade 
   • 6th – 8th Grade 
   • 9th – 12th Grade 
   • Adults 
2. Three Pictures limit per participant: A maximum of three pictures is allowed per participant. The focus of the picture submission has to be based on the Mahragan theme “The Lord is my Light and Salvation“ 
3. Size, and Formatting: JPG, JPEG, or TIFF are the only allowed formats. Image quality and how it reflects the theme of the Mahragan will be considered when judging the work.
4. Be Spontaneous and Creative: Participants are encouraged to be creative and spontaneous. 
5. Original Works only: Any work submitted must be original work and cannot include any work copied from external sources will automatically disqualify the participant. Please respect the privacy of other individuals, any identifiable persons in the picture must consent to be photographed and consent for the picture to be used in the competition and to be posted on the Mahragan website. 
6. Include the following: Participants must describe the picture and choose a title for the picture 
7. Evaluation Criteria: your work will be judged based on the following criteria: 
   • How does the picture match the Mahragan theme? 30% 
   • Quality of the picture 25% 
   • Creativity and Novelty 25% 
   • The Description and title of the Picture 20% 
8. Deadlines and late submissions: Please submit (upload) your picture by 07/22/2024 with your name, church name, Grade, and picture description and title using the link provided on the Mahragan website. No late submissions will be allowed. 

Advanced Competitions: Research

The Mahragan Research Competition is a high-level contest designed to inspire talented Coptic children and youth to delve deep into relevant topics connected to the conference theme. As part of the Mahragan El-Keraza, participants must first successfully complete the core competitions to be eligible for this advanced challenge.

This competition aims to foster critical thinking, exchange ideas, and enhance written communication skills, preparing our youth to confidently and articulately express their beliefs. It also serves as a platform to recognize their hard work and dedication. Extra points will be awarded for entries that draw inspiration from the Mahragan theme and make use of materials from our Coptic heritage, Church spirit, values and traditions. Please review the following guidelines and specific details:

Eligibility:

• Minimum age: 2nd Grade
• Age group categories: 2nd & 3rd Grade, 4th & 5th Grade, 6th – 8th Grade, 9th – 12th Grade, Adults

Submission Rules:

• One submission per participant
• Use Arial 12-point font, single-spaced
• Include the title on the first page, but DO NOT write your church or name
• Diagrams may be included but won’t count towards the total page count
• Include a bibliography with your submission
• Only original works will be accepted; plagiarism will lead to disqualification and may affect future participation

Page Count:

• Elementary (up to 5th grade): 2-6 pages (excluding cover page and references)
• Middle (up to 8th grade): 5-15 pages
• High school and Adult: 7-30 pages

Research Steps:

1. Select a topic and formulate a specific thesis (your research should answer a question)
2. Choose appropriate resources (books, online publications, etc.)
3. Identify key information and its source (by highlighting, annotating, etc.)
4. Reword the key information in your own words
5. Incorporate the reworded information into your final copy
6. Include your sources in your bibliography
7. Consult the suggested research topics list (see below)

Deadlines:

• Submit your work (typed, in PDF format) by 07/22/2024 using the link provided on the Mahragan website
• No late submissions will be accepted

Evaluation Criteria:

• Cover Page (including research topic, diagram/picture/image): 10%
• Knowledge of Research Content (question about the topic and/or related to the theme): 40%
• Organization (paragraphs, subheadings, quotes, etc.): 20%
• Sources/References (credit for the writer or source used): 10%
• Mechanics (spelling, grammar, punctuation errors): 20%

Research Topics:

We look forward to witnessing the passion and creativity of our youth as they delve into this year’s Mahragan! Our theme is “The Lord is my Light and Salvation”. This year’s festival research competition is designed to enrich the spiritual knowledge and analytical skills of participants through two distinct categories: Conventional Research and Book Reading. Each category offers a unique avenue for exploration and learning within the Coptic Orthodox tradition.

Conventional Research:

In this category, participants select from a variety of thought-provoking topics that delve into the rich traditions and teachings of the Coptic Orthodox Church.

Book Reading (NEW):

The new Book Reading category offers participants a chance to deeply engage with selected theological texts, encouraging personal reflection and scholarly analysis. Each age group will explore different texts tailored to their understanding and maturity

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Conventional Research:

Grades 2 and 3:

• Light in Our Lives: Participants can explore how light is important in their everyday lives and in nature (like the sun, stars, and fireflies). They can relate these examples to the idea that God is our light, guiding and comforting us.
• Bible Stories of Courage: Participants can choose a story from the Bible where someone showed courage with God’s help (such as David fighting Goliath). They can illustrate the story and share how it teaches us to find strength in God’s light.
• What Prayer Means to Me: This topic invites participants to express what prayer means to them and how it makes them feel closer to God. They can include examples of prayers from the Bible that show God as a source of light and salvation.
• My Church Family: Participants can explore the role of their church or community in helping them learn about God. They can talk about their favorite church activities and how these help them see God as their light.
• Symbols of Light in Christianity: Focusing on symbols like candles, this topic allows participants to learn why light is used in church and what it symbolizes. They can create a simple project or drawing to show what they’ve learned.

Grades 4 and 5:

• Exploring “The Lord is My Light and My Salvation”: Participants delve into this verse (Psalm 27:1), researching its meaning, context in the Bible, and how it can apply to our lives today. They can present their findings in a creative way.
• Heroes of Faith in Difficult Times: Participants can research a biblical figure who showed faith in challenging times (such as Esther or Daniel). They should explore the story’s context, the character’s faith, and the lessons we can learn about relying on God as our light and salvation.
• The Power of Prayer in the Bible: This topic encourages participants to study different prayers in the Bible, focusing on how these prayers demonstrate trust in God as our light and salvation. They can reflect on what these prayers teach us about communicating with God.
• The Role of the Church in Spreading Light: Participants can investigate how the church community supports its members and spreads God’s light to others. They might also explore historical or modern examples of how the church has been a beacon of hope and salvation.
• Christian Symbols of Light Through History: This research topic would have participants explore how symbols of light have been used throughout Christian history and what they represent about Jesus and his role as our light and salvation. They can present on one symbol’s origins, meaning, and how it’s used today.

Middle School (grades 6 to 8):

• Exploring the Role of Light in Coptic Orthodox Rituals and Traditions: Participants can research the significance of light in various Coptic Orthodox Church rituals, such as the use of candles during liturgy, the celebration of the Feast of Theophany, and other ceremonies. They can explore how these rituals symbolize Christ as the light of the world and what this symbolism means for believers in their daily lives.
• Saints of the Coptic Orthodox Church as Beacons of Light: This topic invites participants to select a saint from the Coptic Orthodox tradition and research their life story, focusing on how their faith and actions brought light to the darkness and served as a model of Christ’s salvation. Participants can draw inspiration from saints like Saint Anthony the Great, Saint Bishoy, or Saint Mina the Wonder-Worker among others.
• The Wisdom of the Early Church Fathers: Participants can explore the teachings and writings of the Early Church Fathers of the Coptic Orthodox Church. They can research how these teachings illuminate the path of faith and how the Church Fathers interpreted “The Lord is my light and my salvation” in their spiritual guidance.
• Miracles in Coptic Orthodoxy as Manifestations of Light and Salvation: This topic allows participants to research and present on miracles attributed to the intercessions of the Virgin Mary, the angels, or saints within the Coptic Orthodox Church. They can explore how these miracles serve as signs of God’s light and salvation, offering hope and strengthening faith among believers.
• The Coptic Orthodox Church: A Historical Beacon of Faith: Participants can delve into the history of the Coptic Orthodox Church, focusing on its origins, how it has been a source of light during periods of persecution, and its role in spreading Christianity in Egypt and beyond. They can research specific historical events or periods where the Church played a crucial role in preserving the faith and providing spiritual guidance and salvation to its followers.

High School (grades 9 to 12):

• Exploring the Use of Light in Coptic Orthodox Rituals and Symbolism: Participants can research how light is symbolically used in Coptic Orthodox rituals, such as the use of candles during liturgies and the significance of light in feast days. This topic can extend to the exploration of light symbolism in icons and church architecture, reflecting on how these elements convey the theme of Christ as the light of the world.
• The Lives and Teachings of Coptic Saints as Beacons of Light: This topic invites participants to select a Coptic saint and delve into their life story, teachings, and how they exemplified living in the light of Christ. It can also include an analysis of how the saint’s legacy continues to inspire the Coptic community today and personal reflections on what participants can learn from these saints about being a light in the world.
• Analyzing Biblical Passages Through Coptic Interpretations: Participants can choose specific biblical passages related to the theme “The Lord is my light and my salvation” and analyze them through the lens of Coptic Orthodox exegesis and teachings of the early Church Fathers. This could include a comparison of interpretations and reflections on how these insights enrich their understanding of the Bible and its application to daily life.
• Miracles in the Coptic Orthodox Church: Signs of Light and Salvation: This research topic allows participants to explore documented miracles in the history of the Coptic Orthodox Church, analyzing the contexts in which these miracles occurred, their significance, and their impact on the faith of the community. Participants can also reflect on the role of miracles as manifestations of God’s light and salvation in the world.
• The Role of Monasticism in Spreading the Light of Christ: Participants can investigate the history and development of monasticism within the Coptic Orthodox Church, focusing on the desert fathers and mothers and their teachings. This research can explore how monasticism serves as a beacon of spiritual light, guiding the faithful towards a deeper relationship with God, and its influence on the wider Christian world.

Adults:

• The Influence of Early Church Fathers on Understanding Light and Salvation: This topic invites participants to delve into the writings and teachings of early church fathers within the Coptic Orthodox tradition. Research can focus on how these figures interpreted and communicated the concepts of God as light and salvation, their contributions to theology, and their relevance to contemporary Christian life.
• Saints as Beacons of Light in the Coptic Orthodox Church: Participants can choose one or more Coptic saints to study their lives, virtues, and the miracles associated with them. This topic encourages exploring how the saints’ lives exemplify the theme “The Lord is my light and my salvation” and how their stories inspire believers today.
• The Role of Miracles in Strengthening Faith: This research topic explores the significance of miracles in the Coptic Orthodox faith, including biblical miracles and those attributed to saints or occurring in contemporary times. Participants can investigate how miracles serve as manifestations of God’s light and salvation, impacting individuals’ faith and the church community.
• Analysis of Coptic Liturgy and Hymnology in Conveying Divine Light: Participants can study specific aspects of the Coptic Orthodox liturgy and hymnology, focusing on how these practices convey the concepts of divine light and salvation. This could include an exploration of the symbolism of light in liturgical rituals, the theological depth of Coptic hymns, and the sensory experience of participating in worship.
• The Role of Monasticism in Preserving Coptic Orthodox Traditions: Investigate how monastic life, beginning with early fathers like St. Anthony the Great, has played a pivotal role in preserving the teachings, rituals, and spiritual practices of the Coptic Orthodox Church. This topic invites participants to explore the history of monasticism within the Coptic Orthodox tradition, including its impact on theological thought, the preservation of Christian texts, and the development of communal and solitary monastic practices. Participants can also examine how monasticism continues to influence the Coptic Orthodox faith today, serving as a beacon of spiritual discipline, prayer, and living out the verse “The Lord is my light and my salvation” in a world of constant change.

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Book Reading (NEW):

Dive into the depths of spirituality and tradition in our annual festival research competition! This year, we’ve added a novel twist—participants are encouraged not only to conduct insightful research but also to explore and report on significant texts that embody the rich teachings of Orthodoxy. Each age group will delve into selected works that have been thoughtfully chosen to inspire and enlighten.

Participation Details:

Participants are required to select one book from their respective category, conduct thorough research, and present their findings in a 1000-word essay. Essays should describe different elements of interest found within the book, especially in the context of the retreat’s theme, “The Lord is my light and my salvation.” This approach not only encourages a deeper personal connection with the material but also fosters a comprehensive understanding of Orthodox Christian beliefs and practices.

Middle School (grades 6 to 8):

Middle school students are invited to engage with texts that are both accessible and challenging, fostering a foundational understanding of their faith:

• Born Crucified” by Anba Moussa: A compelling read available on the Upper Room Media app, this short book discusses the profound spiritual life through the lens of crucifixion and resurrection.
• “The Spiritual Means”: Sourced from St. Mina’s church in Holmdel, this text guides young minds through the essential practices of spiritual life.
• “The Life of Thanksgiving”: Students will research the enriching practice of gratitude within the Orthodox tradition.
• “A Spring in Sinai” by Anthony Marcos: This book provides a vivid account of Father Mina Abood’s life and legacy, emphasizing his unwavering faith in the face of adversity.
• “The Silent Patriarch” by Daniel Fanous: Explore the life of Patriarch Kyrillos VI, focusing on his silent, yet impactful, spiritual leadership during a period of religious and political challenges.

High School (grades 9 to 12):

High school students will explore complex theological concepts through a selection of profound texts. Participants can choose from:

• “Salvation in the Orthodox Concept” by Pope Shenouda III: Delve into the profound insights of Pope Shenouda III on Orthodox soteriology. Although the written PDF is unavailable, an audio version can be accessed for your research.
• “Christ in the Eucharist” by Father Tadros Malaty: Available on the Upper Room Media app, this book offers a deep dive into the mystical presence of Christ in the Eucharist.
• “The Fiery Spirit” by Father Tadros Malaty: Explore the dynamic work of the Holy Spirit in the Orthodox faith, available at St. Mina’s church in Holmdel.
• “A Spring in Sinai” by Anthony Marcos: Follow the remarkable life of Hieromartyr Mina Abood, from his humble beginnings to his martyrdom in post-revolution Egypt. This narrative highlights his resilience and deep faith, challenging readers to reflect on the contemporary relevance of martyrdom.
• “The Silent Patriarch” by Daniel Fanous: Discover the quiet strength and ecclesial reform of Kyrillos VI, a desert hermit who became an unlikely patriarch amidst tumultuous times, offering a model of leadership and faith under pressure.

Servants Category:

For those in the servant’s role, the focus will be on deepening their understanding and ability to guide others through these insightful texts:

• “Discipleship” by HH Pope Shenouda III: Available on the Upper Room Media app, this text delves into the heart of being a disciple in the modern world.
• “The Divinity of Christ” by HH Pope Shenouda III: Also accessible on the Upper Room Media app, this work offers an in-depth look at Christ’s nature from an Orthodox perspective.
• “A Spring in Sinai” and “The Silent Patriarch”: Both books are included to enhance the servants’ breadth of knowledge and provide more contexts for spiritual leadership.
• “The Silent Patriarch” by Daniel Fanous: Discover the quiet strength and ecclesial reform of Kyrillos VI, a desert hermit who became an unlikely patriarch amidst tumultuous times, offering a model of leadership and faith under pressure.

Advanced Competitions: Creative Writing

Creative Writing is an advanced level competition in Mahragan El-Keraza; enrolment and successfully competing in the core competitions is a prerequisite. The goal of this advanced level Competition is to encourage gifted Coptic children and Youth to integrate this form of written works of artistic merit and creativity into spiritual fellowship and provide an opportunity for them to be recognized for their efforts. The creative writing competition includes two categories: Poetry and Short Story. For poetry, special emphasis will be given to the use of distinctive style and rhythm to express the feelings evoked around this year’s Mahragan Theme “The Lord is my Light and Salvation”. A short story is a fictional piece that utilizes setting, plot, and characterization to reveal the theme of the Mahragan. Evaluation criteria will include extra points for work that is inspired by our Coptic Heritage, Church spirit, and Coptic values and traditions.

GUIDELINES AND SPECIFIC DETAILS:

1. The minimum age to participate in the Creative Writing competition is 1st Grade. The competition is open to the following age group categories:
   • 1st – 3rd Grade
   • 4th & 5th Grade
   • 6th – 8th Grade
   • 9th – 12th Grade
   • Adults
2. One submission per participant: Only one submission is allowed per participant. Write the title of the work on the first page. DO NOT write your church or your name on the work you are submitting.
3. Be Spontaneous and Creative: Participants are encouraged to be creative and use any available resources including Coptic heritage resources, hymns, etc.
4. Original Works only: Any work submitted must be original work and cannot include any work copied from external sources, including previously submitted written articles or poems. Using existing materials will automatically disqualify the participant.
5. Recommended word count per grade for short stories:
   • Grades 1-3: 300 words
   • Grades 4-5: 300-500words
   • Grades 6-8: 500-800words
   • Grades 9-12: 800-1000words
   • Adults: 1000 – 1500 words
6. Recommended line count per grade for poetry:
   • Grades 1 – 3: 5-8lines
   • Grades 4 – 5: 10lines
   • Grades 6 – 8: 15lines
   • Grades 9 – 12: 20lines
   • Adults: 20+ lines
7. Evaluation Criteria:
   1. Criteria for evaluating short stories:
      • Idea and purpose – The idea must be significant, innovative, and must have a purpose. (10%)
      • Creativity and Choice of words – New way of addressing an issue. (10%)
      • Clarity and Brevity – The language must be clear and easily understood. The use of archaic/outdated language should be avoided. (10%)
      • Arrangement & Flow of Sentences – Creates natural flow of events or creative arrangement of events that inspire interest or intrigue. (20%)
      • Use of figurative language – Using allegorical or metaphorical language to illustrate the main idea. (10%)
      • Grammar and composition – Vary your syntax (10%)
      • Efficiency in producing the desired effect upon the reader – No unnecessary phrasing (10%)
      • The overall effect of the story – (20%)
   2. Criteria for evaluating poetry:
      • Idea and purpose–The idea must be significant, innovative, and must have a purpose.(10%)
      • Creativity and choice of words – A new way of approaching an issue. (10%)
      • Clarity and Brevity – The choice of vocabulary is critical. The use of archaic language should be avoided. (10%)
      • Rhythm – the beat and pace of a poem must be appropriate and fits with the theme/tone of the poem. (20%)
      • Use of figurative language – Using allegorical or metaphorical language to illustrate the main idea. (10%)
      • Grammar and composition – Vary your syntax (10%)
      • Efficiency in producing the desired effect upon the reader – No unnecessary phrasing or usage of words just to fill out the missing rhythm. (10%)
      • The overall effect of the poem – (20%)
8. Deadlines and late submissions: Please submit (upload) your work (typed, in PDF electronic format, no handwriting or other formats allowed) by 07/22/2024 using the link provided on the Mahragan website. No late submissions will be allowed.

Advanced Competitions: Video Competition

Videotaping, editing, and production is an advanced level competition in Mahragan El-Keraza; enrollment and successfully competing in the core competitions is a prerequisite. The goal of the Video Competition is to encourage gifted Coptic children and Youth to integrate this form of art and creativity into spiritual fellowship and provide an opportunity for them to be recognized for their efforts.

GUIDELINES AND SPECIFIC DETAILS:

1. The minimum age to participate in the video competition is 1st Grade. The competition is open to the following age group categories:
   • 1st – 3rd Grade
   • 4th & 5th Grade
   • 6th – 8th Grade
   • 9th – 12th Grade
   • Adults
2. One submission per participant: Only one submission is allowed per participant. The focus of the video submission must be based on the Mahragan theme “The Lord is my Light and Salvation“.
3. Duration, Size, and Formatting: Create a short video (Maximum duration of 15 minutes, formatted as an mp4 video file, with a maximum file size of 1 GB). The Video’s sound and image quality will be considered when judging the work.
4. Be Spontaneous and Creative: Participants are encouraged to be creative and use any available resources including audio & visual effects, customs, crafts, Acting, Animation, Slide Show, etc.
5. Original Works only: Any work submitted must be original work and cannot include any work copied from external sources, including previous performances. Using existing video material will automatically disqualify the participant.
6. Include the following: Participants must describe in the Video:
   • Why they chose this topic and what is unique about their work
   • What did he learn from the experience of composing the Video
7. Evaluation Criteria: your work will be judged based on the following criteria:
   • How does the video topic match the Mahragan theme? 20%
   • Quality of the audio and visual composition 25%
   • Creativity and Novelty 25%
   • Clarity and quality of the presentation by the producer
     • Why they chose this video topic 15%
     • What did he learn from the experience composing the video 15%
8. Deadlines and late submissions: Please submit (upload) your Video by 07/22/2024 with your video topic name / title using the link provided on the Mahragan website. No late submissions will be allowed.

Advanced Competitions: Coptic Calligraphy

Coptic Calligraphy is an advanced level competition in Mahragan El-Keraza; enrollment and successfully competing in the core competitions is a prerequisite. The goal of the Coptic Calligraphy Competition is to encourage gifted Coptic children and Youth to integrate this form of art and creativity into spiritual fellowship and provide an opportunity for them to be recognized for their efforts. It is defined as the design and execution of Coptic lettering with a pen, ink brush, or other writing instrument
with the intention of invoking an emotional feeling and to look beautiful.

GUIDELINES AND SPECIFIC DETAILS:

1. The minimum age to participate in the photography competition is 4th Grade. The competition is open to the following age group categories:
   • 4th & 5th Grade
   • 6th – 8th Grade
   • 9th – 12th Grade
   • Adults
2. One art piece limit per participant: A maximum of one calligraphy art piece is allowed per participant. The focus of the Coptic calligraphy submission has to be based on the Mahragan theme “The Lord is my Light and Salvation“. Pick a verse in the bible with the word “Light” or “Salvation” in it and use Coptic calligraphy to write it down on paper or papyrus.
3. Calligraphy Tools/Fountain pen, ball point or Gel pen can be used.
4. Participants can use any Verse ( Or Church Fathers Saying) for Coptic Calligraphy, Length of paragraph should not exceed 130 words (shorter is better).
5. Size, and Formatting: JPG, JPEG, or TIFF are the only allowed formats. Image quality and how it reflects the theme of the Mahragan will be considered when judging the work.
6. Be Spontaneous and Creative: Participants are encouraged to be creative and spontaneous.
7. Original Works only: Any work submitted must be original work and cannot include any work copied from external sources will automatically disqualify the participant.
8. Include the following: Participants must describe the Verse or the Church Fathers’ saying.
9. Evaluation Criteria: your work will be judged based on the following criteria:
   • How does the picture match the Mahragan theme? 30%
   • Quality of the Calligraphy 25%
   • Creativity and Novelty 25%
   • Uniformity and materials used 20%
10. Deadlines and late submissions: Please submit (upload) your picture by 07/22/2024 using the link provided on the Mahragan website. No late submissions will be allowed.

Taraneem Writing & Music Composition (NEW)

Introduction to the competition

In the spirit of Jubal, the father of all who play the harp and flute, and in the footsteps of King David, who not only penned psalms but also orchestrated the musical worship, we are blessed to introduce the Taraneem Writing & Music Composition Competition to this year’s Mahragan. In this, we aim to inspire young Orthodox Christian youths in our diocese to express their faith and love for God through music and taraneem. This competition is designed to discover and nurture the talents of our youth, encouraging them to contribute their own songs and music to the rich tapestry of Orthodox Christian worship.

Eligibility and Entry Requirements:

Age Categories: Participants in our competition will be divided into two age groups to ensure a fair and exciting contest:

Juniors:  Open to individuals in Middle School and younger. This category is designed to nurture young talent and provide them with a platform to showcase their musical abilities.

Pros: Open to individuals in High School and above. This category is for more experienced participants who are ready to take their musical skills to the next level.

Submission Guidelines

• One Song Per Entry: Each participant may submit one song that includes both lyrics and music.
• Encouragement of Group Participation: We highly encourage group entries as they promote collaboration and creativity, with added points for teamwork.
• Opportunity for Dual Submissions: Participants in groups have the unique opportunity to also submit an individual entry. This encourages individual creativity within a collaborative setting. Please remember, no one is allowed more than one individual submission.

Theme:

The song’s lyrics must reflect the spirit of our Church, with a focus on this year’s theme, ” The Lord is my Light and my Salvation” Participants are encouraged to draw inspiration from the Bible, church fathers, or Orthodox hymnography. 

Song Submission Guidelines:

Lyrics: Must present a Christian spiritual message, reflecting Coptic Orthodox Church teaching and spirit.

Music Composition: Participants are encouraged to submit original compositions. Additionally, the creative use of traditional taraneem / hymns with new arrangements, as well as the innovative implementation of traditional music tools such as cymbals and trianto, will be considered a plus.

Audio File Requirements: Submissions must be in MP3, WAV, or AAC format. The quality of the recording will be considered during the evaluation.

Documentation: A brief explanation of the song’s background, inspiration, and a description of any traditional elements used in the composition should be included.

***Special Interest In a cappella and vocal creativity: We hold a special interest in entries that showcase a cappella singing, where participants use their voices to create the entirety of the music, including melody, harmony, rhythm, and even mimicking instruments. This pure vocal art form will be given special attention and evaluated with a keen focus.

Triathlon of Faith & Service Competition for Diocese Servants

Introduction 

This year, we are thrilled to introduce a new competition in Mahragan Al Keraza – the “Triathlon of Faith & Service” competition, crafted for our diocese servants. Servants from each church will unite as a single group, embodying the collective spirit to compete. This competition will be online, allowing participants to engage from their respective locales. Servants participating in this competition are not required to participate in the general adults spiritual competition.

First Dimension: Bible Study

The Book of Romans Participants will study the Book of Romans, equipped with a recommended suite of reading materials in addition to the text itself. This includes commentaries from Father Tadros Yacoub Malaty and Fr. Matthew. To guide their preparation, we will offer examples of exemplary questions. .

Second Dimension: Spiritual Book Study

“The Life of Repentance and Purity” Our spiritual book competition centers on the “The Life of Repentance and Purity” by His Holiness Pope Shenouda III. This segment invites participants to study the essential themes of repentance and purity, especially in the context of the Mahragan theme for this year. Available in both Arabic and English, the book will be provided to all competitors, with recommendations on specific sections to focus their study.

Third Dimension: Apologetics 

The apologetics portion will challenge participants to articulate and defend the timeless truths of our faith, recommended reading materials include the “Timeless Truth in Truthless Times” by George Basilious and the classic work by C.S. Lewis as well as other books. This segment encourages a robust engagement with the rational foundations of our Orthodox beliefs, preparing servants to address contemporary spiritual and philosophical questions.

Competition Structure and Scoring 

While this competition primarily targets servants, pre-servants from each church may also participate with special permission from ministry heads. Participants may enter as only as a group, competing on all three dimensions. The final score will represent an average of performances across all areas.

Our Vision 

The “Triathlon of Faith & Service” is more than a competition; it is a platform designed to deepen our servants’ engagement and to equip our servants and participating pre-servants with the knowledge and wisdom to navigate their spiritual journey in service with confidence and grace.