LFL of South Dakota

2026 Lutherans For Life of South Dakota essay Contest

Here are our winners. (Click on the links below to read the essays.)

9th Through 12th Grade Division

Olivia Brown – First Place
Lydia Brown – Second Place

6th Through 8th Grade Division

Joy Drevlow – First Place
Kendall Johnsen – Second Place

2026 Lutherans For Life Essay Contest

Our 2026 Lutherans For Life Essay Contest Theme: That They May Have Life.

Our theme verse: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10).

The Lutherans For Life Council of Federation Presidents sponsors an essay contest each year for students in two grade categories: 6-8 and 9-12.

This contest is available for students in all states who attend a Lutheran school or a Lutheran church.
State essay contests precede the national essay contest. State essay winners in the two grade categories will be entered into the national contest. .

We look forward to students across South Dakota participating in our contest and letting their voices be heard through their life-affirming essays!

Questions? Please contact Michele Hartshorn at mhartshorn@lutheransforlife.org.

2026 South Dakota Essay Contest Rules

Witness of the Crosses Trailer

We invite fellow congregations or any organization in South Dakota to use the Witness of the Crosses Trailer to display the number of abortions in 2022 in our state. Please contact a board member if you are interested!