Michelle Rossi, a sophomore at St. Joseph High School in Lakewood, has received third place honors in Maryknoll magazine's annual Student Essay Contest.

The contest was started to highlight the Christian faith of today's youth and the ways in which they integrate Jesus' teachings into their lives. Winners received $3,00 in scholarship money and coverage in Maryknoll magazine.

"When confronted by injustice, it's tempting to take the easy way out and do or say nothing. But our nation and our church developed over the centuries because patriots and prophets dared to speak out, often at great personal risk," said Maryknoll Father Joseph R. Veneroso, publisher of Maryknoll magazine. "Through our essay contest, we hope to encourage young people to make the world a better place by speaking out when they see something which is not fair or right."

Following the contest theme of "Standing up, Speaking Out," Rossi's essay focused on prejudice among small children. For her prize Rossi received a plaque and check for $150 at an awards ceremony on June 8 at St. Joseph.