The GRACE Award |

Growing Righteously As Christ Expects

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Purpose: The GRACE Award honors a Christian youth who demonstrate spiritual growth, Christ-like character, servant leadership, and faithful commitment in their congregation, school, and community.

 

ELIGIBILITY TO APPLY:

 

Applicants must:

• Be an active baptized member of the Church of Christ

• Be in grades 6 through 12

• Be registered for and attend the 2026 Midwest Youth Conference

• Demonstrate active congregational involvement (letter of recommendation)

• Submit the full application by the deadline

 

Essay Requirements:

In a 250 - word essay, address the following prompts:

1. Thinking about your relationship with Christ, describe how you have grown spiritually in the past year. 

2. How do you represent Christ in school and on social media?

3. What does “Growing Righteously As Christ Expects” mean in your daily life? 

 

In your essay, consider including areas of service: scripture reading and prayer (males during Worship Service, males and females during Bible classes), community service, hospitality committee, media/tech, etc.

 

Letter of Recommendation:

Attach a brief, typed letter of recommendation from either your Bible class teacher, minister, youth counselor, or elder. See attached page. 

It may also be submitted through the Google Form found at: www.midwestyouthconference.org

 

Application and Essay Deadline: 

The application and essay must be received no later than June 1, 2026, 11:59 PM, CST.

 

Application and Essay Submission:

1. Google Form (www.midwestyouthconference.org)

2. Mail the application, essay, and letter of recommendation to the following address: 

 

North Shore Church of Christ 

Attn: Midwest Youth Conference/GRACE Award 

326 Julian Street 

Waukegan, IL 60085