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 “Stay firm in what you have learned“ 
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 07/25/2025 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 07/25/2025 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 “Stay firm in what you have learned“. 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:

• Standing Strong in My Faith
  Explore what it means to stay firm in what you’ve learned about Jesus and the Church. Share who teaches you about God and how you can keep learning and growing.
• Bible Heroes Who Stayed Firm
  Choose a Bible story where someone stayed strong and did not give up their faith (like Noah, Joseph, or Daniel) and explain how you can learn to stay firm like them.
•  What I Learned in Church : Describe what you have learned in Sunday School and how it helps you to stay firm in your faith.
•  The Armor of God :  Learn about the Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) and how each part helps you stay firm in what you believe.
• My Church Family Helps Me Stay Strong
  Describe how your family, priests, deacons, and teachers help you grow in faith and encourage you to hold onto what you’ve learned.
•  The Coptic Martyrs of Libya: Heroes Who Stayed Firm : Learn the story of the 21 Coptic martyrs of Libya and how they stayed strong and faithful to Jesus until the end.

Grades 4 and 5:

• What Does It Mean to “Stay Firm” in Our Faith?
  Research the verse’s meaning and apply it to your life. Explore how prayer, reading the Bible, and listening to your parents and priests help you stay firm.
• Saints Who Never Gave Up Their Faith
  Research the life of a Coptic saint who remained strong in their faith despite hardship (e.g., St. George, St. Demiana, St. Marina).
• The Importance of Learning About Our Faith
  Explain why it is important to keep learning about the Coptic Orthodox Church, the Bible, and the lives of saints.
• The Apostles’ Teachings: How the Early Church Stayed Firm
  Learn how the Apostles taught the faith and how early Christians remained strong even when facing danger.
• The Story of the 21 Coptic Martyrs of Libya
  Research the modern story of the 21 Coptic martyrs and how they stayed firm in their faith despite facing death.

Middle School (grades 6 to 8):

• The Faith of the Martyrs: How They Stayed Firm
  Research a Coptic martyr’s story and how they stayed firm in what they believed.
• The Coptic Orthodox Church: Guardian of the True Faith
  Research how the Church has defended the faith through centuries of persecution.
• The Importance of Orthodox Tradition in Staying Firm
  Investigate how Coptic prayers, liturgy, and teachings help us stay firm.
• St. Athanasius: Defender of the True Faith
  Study how St. Athanasius stayed firm against false teachings.
• The Role of the Holy Bible in Helping Us Stay Firm
  Explore why reading and living by the Bible helps us remain firm.
• The Coptic Martyrs of Libya: A Modern Witness of Steadfast Faith
  Research the story of the 21 Coptic martyrs and how their witness strengthens the faith of Copts around the world today.

High School (grades 9 to 12):

• The Apostolic Tradition: Staying Firm in the Teachings of the Apostles
  Research how the Coptic Orthodox Church preserved the apostolic faith.
• The Impact of Persecution on the Coptic Identity
  Study how centuries of persecution helped Copts remain strong in their faith.
• Modern Challenges to Faith and How to Stay Firm
  Analyze modern challenges to faith and how young Copts can stay firm.
• The Role of the Early Church Fathers in Defending the Faith
  Research how figures like St. Cyril, St. Basil defended the faith.
• Why Learning Theology Matters: The Danger of Losing What We Have Learned
  Explore why theological learning is essential to staying firm in faith.
• The Coptic Martyrs of Libya: Martyrdom in Our Time
  Analyze the story of the 21 Coptic martyrs, the significance of their witness, and how they became an example of steadfast faith in the modern era.

Adults:

• The Preservation of Faith Through Coptic History
  Research how the Coptic Church preserved the faith despite centuries of oppression.
• The Role of Discipleship in Staying Firm
  Study how spiritual mentorship helps believers remain steadfast.
• Faith and Reason: Defending Orthodox Beliefs in Today’s World
  Research how modern Orthodox Christians can defend their faith.
• Martyrdom and Witness: The Price of Staying Firm
  Investigate how the Coptic Church’s history of martyrdom testifies to staying firm in faith.
• The Spiritual Disciplines That Help Us Stay Firm
  Explore how prayer, fasting, confession, and Scripture study help us stay firm.
• The 21 Martyrs of Libya: A Testament of Faith and Identity
  Research the broader significance of the Libya martyrs for Copts and Christians around the world and how their witness calls us to stay firm today.

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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 “Stay firm in what you have learned”. 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 07/25/2025 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 “Stay firm in what you have learned“.
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 07/25/2025 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 “Stay firm in what you have learned“. Pick a verse in the bible with the word “Firm” or “Learned” 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 07/25/2025 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, “Stay firm in what you have learned“ 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.