“Go to church.” That advice may seem simple, but it’s the one thing Luke Engstrom wanted to tell his fellow college students in his winning entry to The Gospel Coalition’s inaugural essay contest for young writers hosted last year.

Engstrom is one of the many Gen Zers who demonstrated their passion for the gospel in their essays. We were encouraged by their love for the inerrancy of Scripture, their gospel-fueled hope amid a disillusioned generation, and countless other ways young people are defying stereotypes to steadfastly love Jesus and his church. In a world that refuses to listen to God’s words and mocks those who do, faithful believers among Gen Z are seeking the “ancient paths” and finding “rest for [their] souls” (Jer. 6:16).

We’ve just opened up entries for our 2023 essay competition, and we’re excited to again see how God is working in and through Gen Z. As TGC editor Megan Hill wrote when announcing last year’s winners, “The students are here, and we are thankful.”

This year, we’re inviting essays from writers aged 16–22 on who in their church has influenced them, evangelistic approaches for their generation, and what Gen Z is getting right. The prizes on offer include cash, gift cards, and publication at TGC. Entries are open until July 1, so don’t delay.

Let the young people in your life know about the contest or get your own entry in now!