Who is eligible? The National Oratorical Competition consists of two categories: Junior (ages 12 to 15) and Senior (ages 16 to 22). Ideally, each Jurisdiction should have a state competition to select its junior and senior contestants for the national competition. There should be only one contestant from each category competing at the national level. Each contestant must submit an application to the National Coordinator and include a brief autobiographical sketch. Applicants must be members of the Church of God in Christ, and must be prepared to show proof of age, if requested. Information about Oratory: The characteristic of oratory which distinguishes it from public speaking, in general, is its appeal to the emotions. No matter how clear, logical, or effective speaking may be, as long as it appeals primarily to the intellect, it remains public speaking. When, however, emotions are touched -- love, joy, hate, ambition -- then speaking becomes oratory. And although oratory appeals powerfully to the emotions of the hearer, yet it is not necessarily preaching. Oratory is composed of two elements: matter and manner. When one gives an oration, one should be certain of the content and substance of his/her oration. Oratorical topics are received yearly from the National Coordinator. Orations must be original, and are to be done from memory. The time limit is 5-10 minutes. For more Info Contact: Dr. Caryn McGee, National Coordinator Email:cdocgee@yahoo.com

Tips for Developing Oration: I. Suggested Speech Format A. Introduction I . Favorable attention statement 2. Statements of clarity B. Body I . Main points 2. Supporting details C. Conclusion 11. Language Awareness A. Diction (enunciation of words) B. Grammar (appropriate use of language) C. Articulation I . Clarity 2. Creative use of language 3. Vividness 4. Interest 111. Delivery and Stage Presence A. Directness B. Enthusiasm C. Dress and physical appearance D. Body action E. Voice F. Pace