MERRIMACK — Two local children have garnered state-level honors for artwork they created to spread the true message of Christmas joy.

Natalie Rose Faucher, 10, of Milford, daughter of Keith and Deb Faucher, won top prize in the 8-year-old to 10-year old division of the New Hampshire Knights of Columbus “Keep Christ in Christmas” Poster Competition. Eleni Fasquelle, now 8, of Merrimack, daughter of Ernie and Danielle Fasquelle, placed second in the 5-year-old to 7-year-old division.

Both girls participated in the statewide art competition after winning the local “Keep Christ in Christmas” Poster Competition sponsored by Knights of Columbus Council 10896, St. John Neumann Parish, in Merrimack. The state-level competition included entrants from over 70 Knights of Columbus councils from across New Hampshire.

Natalie and Eleni’s artwork now advances to the national, and possibly, international levels. The annual “Keep Christ in Christmas” poster contest is conducted to help children and their families celebrate the true meaning of Christmas — the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Founded in 1882, the Knights of Columbus is a fraternal charitable organization of the Catholic Church. With 1.8 million members worldwide, the Knights of Columbus annually provide $170 million and 70.5 million hours of charitable service.

For more information, contact Ed Griffin, Council 10896 Communications Chairman, at (603) 318-1737.