Help Boys See God at Work in Their World – Quest Contributors Wanted

Every issue of Cadet Quest begins with a simple question:

Who will help boys see God more clearly this month?

If you’re a writer, illustrator, photographer, puzzle-maker, or storyteller with a heart for Christian boys’ ministry, we invite you to consider contributing to Cadet Quest – the official magazine of the Calvinist Cadet Corps.

For generations, Cadet Quest has encouraged boys ages 9–14 to explore their faith, grow in character, and recognize how God is working in their lives and in the world around them. And behind every issue is a team of contributors who care deeply about helping boys grow more Christlike in all areas of life.

That could include you.

What Is Cadet Quest?

Cadet Quest is a Christian magazine created especially for boys ages 9–14. It reaches readers across hundreds of Cadet clubs throughout the United States and Canada – and beyond.

Cadet boys are:

  • active
  • curious
  • imaginative
  • eager for adventure
  • and ready to follow strong role models

Many make important decisions about following Christ during these years. That’s why every article, story, illustration, and puzzle in Cadet Quest is selected intentionally to help boys recognize God’s work in their lives.

What We’re Looking For

We welcome submissions from writers, illustrators, photographers, and puzzle creators who want to help shape content that speaks directly to boys.

Here are some of the ways you can contribute:

Fiction Stories (1,000–1,300 words)

We’re looking for:

  • fast-moving stories
  • adventure and humor
  • sports and teamwork
  • mystery and friendship
  • relatable real-life challenges

Stories should present Christian faith naturally and realistically – not through preachy dialogue, but through believable characters and meaningful experiences boys recognize from their own lives.

Whenever possible, fiction should connect to the issue’s monthly theme.

Nonfiction Articles (Up to 1,500 words)

Strong topics include:

Sports and character formation

  • Christian athletes
  • coaching insights
  • perseverance and teamwork
  • faith lived out in competition

God’s world around us
Articles that highlight God’s creation are welcome when presented naturally and engagingly.

Nonfiction articles should support the mission of helping boys grow more Christlike.

Project & Hobby Articles

Hands-on learning is a favorite with Cadet boys.

We’re especially interested in:

  • woodworking ideas
  • outdoor projects
  • practical builds
  • creative hobbies with clear instructions

Projects should use materials that boys can realistically access.

Photos are welcome, and our illustrators can assist when needed.

Cartoons and Puzzles

We love original contributions like:

  • hidden-picture puzzles
  • crosswords
  • logic puzzles
  • themed games
  • humorous cartoons

Content should be wholesome, fun, and boy-focused.

Illustrations and Photography

Illustrators are contracted as needed to match stories and articles. If you’d like to be considered, please send samples of your work.

Photographers can contribute too, especially action shots and outdoor photos.

Themes for the 2026–2027 Cadet Quest Season

Each issue of Cadet Quest is built around a monthly theme that helps boys recognize how God blesses and shapes their lives.

Upcoming themes include:

September/October 2026 — Mountains of Blessing
Based on Psalm 125:2, this issue reminds boys that God surrounds His people with care and faithfulness – just like the mountains surrounding Jerusalem.

November 2026 — Careers
Work is a gift from God. How can boys begin thinking about future callings in a Christ-centered way?

December 2026 — Finances
Learning stewardship early helps boys honor God with what they receive.

January 2027 — Bodies
Fearfully and wonderfully made – how do we care for the bodies God has given us?

February 2027 — Creation
From tiny organisms to towering landscapes, God’s creation points to His wisdom and care.

March 2027 — Easter
The greatest blessing of all: Christ’s saving work.

April/May 2027 — Families
God places boys in families to nurture, guide, and support them – even when siblings still have “cooties.”

Why Your Contribution Matters

Boys between the ages of 9 and 14 are forming habits, identities, and beliefs that often shape the rest of their lives.

Through Cadet Quest, you can help them:

  • see faith lived out in everyday situations
  • discover adventure with purpose
  • develop skills and confidence
  • recognize God’s blessings around them
  • grow into Christlike men

Few opportunities allow writers and artists to influence boys at such an important stage of life.

Submission Timeline

Themes for each season are finalized near the end of the calendar year.

Manuscripts for the 2026-2027 season will begin selection in May 2026, with fiction and nonfiction typically chosen at least three months before publication.

Now is a great time to start preparing ideas – and submitting work.

Ready to Contribute?

We’d love to hear from you.

Send submissions or sample work to: submissions@CalvinistCadets.org

Whether you write stories, create puzzles, draw illustrations, or take photos, your gifts can help boys see how God is working in their lives and in the world around them.

And that’s what Cadet Quest magazine is all about.

If you have comments or questions about this article, please let us know – info@calvinistcadets.org.