As part of our centennial celebration, the editors of America are pleased to announce the America Essay Contest, open to writers of all ages and occupations. At a time when atheism and religious belief have become prominent issues of discussion and debate in both our nation and our church, the editors have chosen as a general topic for response the following theme: "A Case for God.

The winning manuscript will approach that topic or the various issues surrounding it with creativity, precise argumentation and literary flair. Essays should be written with a general audience in mind, but can be from any perspective, including personal, professional, academic, apologetic or devotional.

Through a generous bequest from an America donor, the author of the winning essay will receive $3,000, and their submission will be published in a future issue of the magazine. Submissions must be original, unpublished work of no more than 2,500 words, and must be received by June 16, 2008. The winner will be announced in October, 2008. Submissions should be sent to writingcontest@americamagazine.org, subject line: America Writing Contest. Or mail to America Writing Contest, 106 W. 56th Street, New York, NY 10019.