Video Contest
Video Contest FAQ

Frequently asked questions about the "What does it mean to live Lutheran?" video contest

Do I have to be an ELCA member to enter?

Entrants in the Individual Category need to be members of the ELCA. Only ELCA congregations are eligible to enter in the Congregation Category. Each congregation must have one contact person who submits the video on behalf of the congregation.

Can a group submit an entry?

Yes. Groups interested in submitting a video can enter in the Individual Category, but the video must be submitted by one person. In the Congregation Category, the first- and second-place prizes will be awarded to the congregation named in the entry. In the Individual Category, prizes will be awarded to the individual named in the entry.

What is the contest schedule?

Contest Kick-off:
May 18, 2011

Submission Window:
May 18 to June 30, 2011

Submission Deadline:
June 30, 2011

Public Viewing and Rating:
May 18 to July 15, 2011

Winners will be announced at 2011 ELCA Churchwide Assembly, Aug. 15-19 in Orlando.

How can I obtain resources to create my video?

Refer to the contest Tool Kit for suggestions about free software, downloads to help you get started, video editing software, images, audio and other helpful links and tips.

How and where do I submit my video entry?

Videos will need to be uploaded digitally on YouTube before you officially enter the contest. Be sure to save the URL of your video assigned from YouTube, since you will need to provide that link on the contestant registration form. You will also need to join LivingLutheran.com.

What is the objective of the ELCA video contest?

The objective of this contest is to share the faith stories of ELCA members. We want members to see themselves as "everyday evangelists," who bring the gospel message with them wherever they go. So, what does this mean for you? What does it mean to live Lutheran in today's world? We welcome stories that inspire, make us laugh and make us cry. Think small as well as big: sharing the gospel happens in those little interactions between friends or strangers, as well as in recovery efforts after a natural disaster. Use your creativity to share your faith story!

How long should my video be?

Videos must be between 30 and 90 seconds in length.

How are the first- and second-place winners chosen?

First- and second-place winners in the Congregation and Individual categories will be determined by staff of LivingLutheran.com. Winners will be selected based on how well they meet the Judging Criteria and Contest Rules. First- and second-place winners in the Congregation category will receive a $3,000 or $1,500 ministry grant. First and second place winners in Individual category will receive a $1,500 or $1,000 cash prize.

How are third-place winners chosen?

Starting May 18, registered users of LivingLutheran.com can vote for their favorite video in each of the two categories. Voting ends July 15. A third place prize of $500 will be awarded to the video receiving the most votes in the Congregation category, and a third place prize of $250 will be awarded to the video receiving the most votes in the Individual category.

How will I know if I've won the contest?

We will notify the winners directly using the contact information submitted in the contestant registration form. All first-, second- and third-place winners will be announced in August at the 2011 ELCA Churchwide Assembly in Orlando, Fla.

What are the contest rules and guidelines?

A full listing of rules and guidelines is available on this site. Important highlights include:

  • All video entries must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. CDT on June 30, 2011.
  • Entries must be 90 seconds or less in duration.
  • All entries must include the ELCA emblem and tagline, the contest URL (www.livinglutheran.com/contest), and the ELCA Churchwide Assembly theme: "Freed in Christ to Serve." Be sure to check out Judging Criteria for more details.
  • Starting May 18, 2011, through June 30, 2011, video entries can be submitted digitally online.
  • The title of your video must include your full name (as it appears in your registration).
  • All the work you enter must be original. Note: Copyrighted hymns from any of the many hymnals available in congregations may not be used.
  • We are running a family-friendly contest. Videos with profanity, discriminatory language or other inappropriate content will automatically be disqualified. See the Contest Rules for more details.
  • Registered users of LivingLutheran.com can vote for their favorite videos in each of the two categories starting May 18. Voting ends July 15.

Can I submit more than one entry?

Yes, you can submit as many entries as you like, but only one prize per individual or congregation will be awarded.

How can I participate in the contest if I do not plan on submitting a video?

You are invited to watch all videos entries and select your favorite one. But before you do, register at LivingLutheran.com and select the Join Now button.

How do I promote my video?

Invite your congregation, family and friends to watch and vote for your video at LivingLutheran.com. Share the invitation in your congregation's newsletter and website, and send a personal email to your family and friends. Let them know that they will need to join LivingLutheran.com to vote for their favorites. Also share the following:

  • Title of your video
  • Your name or the person submitting the video
  • The category you plan to enter -- Congregation or Individual
  • City and state
Remember that the third place winner in each of the two contest categories is determined by the most popular vote. Voting begins May 18 and ends July 15.

How do I find a particular video entry?

You can search for a video by entering one of the following: title of the video, name of the congregation or the name of the person submitting the video, city and state. If you get too many search results, try putting the congregation name in quotation marks to limit your search.