Helmuth ('11) wins honorable mention

James Helmuth, a senior at Bethany Christian High School, Goshen, Ind., earned one of two honorable mentions in the 2011 MCC Washington Office High School Essay Contest for his essay on military spending. Karina Ortman of Freeman Academy, Freeman, S.D., was named the grand prize winner. The grand prize winner receives $500 and honorable mention winners receive $100 each.

In his essay Helmuth notes that U.S. military spending is almost half of the world’s total military spending and has contributed significantly to the U.S. national debt. He says, “living in a wealthy country amid a world full of poverty and violence, we should examine how our nation is contributing to such problems and what can be done to work towards justice and peace.” He recognizes the task may seem daunting, but believes there are ways to promote change by starting in the local community and by “educating others on alternative spending plans that will bring peace and justice instead of violence and war.”

Helmuth’s essay is available to read by downloading in pdf format.

Winning essays were selected for top honors from high school applicants attending Mennonite, Brethren in Christ, and other Anabaptist congregations and/or high schools in North America. The annual essay contest provides an opportunity for young people to reflect on public policy and Anabaptist faith.