2026 LUX ALLELUIA POETRY CONTEST
Unleash Your Creativity
Enter the Contest and Get Recognized
St. Francis of Assisi continues to be a popular saint to this day. People find themselves drawn to his radical kindness to all of creation, his genuine humility, and his love of God.
One of the great treasures in Italian literature is the canticle or “song” which St. Francis composed in praise of God’s creation, including many kinds of creatures.
With St. Francis’ example of unparalleled charity of heart toward all of creation, we are asking young poets to compose their own canticle of praise and joy in God’s gift of creation.
Please view this video by recent California poet laureate Dana Gioia to hear the Canticle of All Creatures, and understand better its literary and historical significance.
Are you a young writer eager to express your creativity but unsure where to start? The 2026 Alleluia Poetry Contest is your opportunity to share your voice, gain recognition, and improve your writing skills.
The goal of the LUX Sacred Poetry Contest grades is to inspire students in the home-school and independent Catholic school community to write about spiritual topics motivated by St. Francis of Assisi’s Canticle of All Creatures, to increase writing skills, and to increase writing confidence.
Benefits of Joining the Contest
At Catholic Literary Arts, we provide the tools, mentorship, and community to help writers develop their craft, rooted in the Catholic tradition. Through workshops, retreats, and expert guidance, we help writers of all levels express their faith through literature.
Skill Development
Through this contest, students will enhance their writing skills, preparing them for future opportunities.
Enhance Curriculum
Teachers and homeschool
parents can combine faith with
creative writing, inspiring children
to express their beliefs while
fostering meaningful discussions
and a deeper connection within
their school environment.
Fostering Spiritual and Creative Growth in Children
Parents will see their child grow spiritually and creatively through the contest, while feeling proud of their child’s efforts and reflections.
How the Contest Works
1. Read the Contest Guidelines
Here you can find detailed guidelines, deadlines, and frequently asked questions.
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2. Submit Your Entry
Here are instructions for submission, including registration, payment.
3. Await Results and Celebrate
Finalists will be announced by March 17, 2026, and winners will be announced by March 24, 2026. The awards ceremony for the winners will be on April 8, 2026.
Resources for Educators
Educators may use these resources to assist them with this year’s sacred poetry contest.
Testimonials from other Contests
“It was awesome. I never submitted my writing before to anyone else. My mother would check my writing. So, with the positive feedback from Catholic Literary Arts, I was able to later join the Teen Writing Mentorship program.”
Mariam Henderson
2022 Poet Laureate
Homeschool Student
Contact Us
Norson Fernandez
Contest Coordinator
nfernandez.cathla@gmail.com
281.810.3844
Sarah Cortez
CLA President
cathla.org@gmail.com
713.331.9342