Merry Christmas, and thanks to all the young artists who shared their talents in the annual Catholic Times Christmas cover contest. This year, several hundred entries competed for the honor of appearing on the cover of the Christmas edition of the diocesan newspaper.

As has become our tradition, the judges have decreed a tie for first place.

One of the first-place winners is Brendan Richardson of Holy Family School in Decatur. His thoughtful illustration appears on this week’s cover.

The other first-place winner is Lauren Sgambelluri, a fifth-grader at Cathedral School in Springfield. Lauren’s artwork will appear on the cover of the Jan. 3 issue of Catholic Times, in celebration of the Epiphany of the Lord.

Both winners will receive a $25 check from Catholic Times.

In second place, shown above, was the entry of Emily Ducaji, a fifth-grader at Christ the King School in Springfield.

In third place was Kennedy Green, a fourth-grader from St. Agnes School in Springfield. Her entry is also shown above.

In addition, there were several honorable mentions which can be viewed online at ct.dio.org.

Again, many thanks to all the young artists who shared their Christmas spirit with us, and to the parents and teachers who helped them.

Merry Christmas to all, from the staff at Catholic Times.

First Place

Second Place

Third Place

Honorable Mentions