Tysons Interfaith, a nonprofit comprised of 19 faith communities in the Greater Tysons area, has announced the results of its first annual Essay and Art Contest.  The contest, entitled “A Whole New World Starts Now,” invited people of all ages to submit art works and essays on positive lessons they learned from the pandemic.  

A total of 28 prizes and honorable mentions in three age groups were awarded in a ceremony held at Redeemer Lutheran Church in McLean on Sunday, November 7.  First prize winners in the essay contest were Annelise Shannon, Arlington (youth), Mary Johnson, Falls Church (teen), and Jeff Yeates, Arlington (adult).  First prize winners in the art contest were Raymond Christiansen, Alexandria (youth), Sarah Lewis, Arlington (teen), and Rachel Short, McLean (adult).  A full list of all prize winners, as well as the winning essays and art works, can be viewed here.  

“As different faith groups, one thing we all share is optimism and hope for the future, even in difficult circumstances,” said Steve Wickman, President of Tysons Interfaith.  “We were gratified to see essays and art works that portrayed constructive activities like baking, sewing, and pets, and most importantly increased family time and helping others.  We were particularly pleased to see so many young children and teens participate.”  

Some essay highlights include: 

“So maybe I was just baking and sewing and playing pickleball, or maybe I was making a difference one small act at a time.”  

“Heroes are everywhere, if you just look around the corner to find a new hero emerging from nowhere to help people have a greater, brighter life.” 

“I learned from the pandemic that if someone is sick or hurt you should help them even if they are different from you.”  

“I hope that when we do reach some normalcy, I will remember this time and not go back to taking the normal for granted.”

“Tysons Interfaith appreciates all those who participated, and the efforts of its talented judges in making very difficult decisions on prize awards.  We look forward to doing this again next year,” said Wickman.