The essay depicted the story of Little Li, an 11-year-old girl living in Communist China during the 1950s, and her unwavering devotion to the Eucharist.

Sofia Cornicelli, the winner of the "Witness to Freedom" essay contest organized by the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops (USCCB), shared her thoughts on her winning essay during an interview with EWTN News Nightly on June 23. Cornicelli emphasized that Little Li's primary concern was ensuring that her Lord's desecrated body was treated with the utmost reverence and care.

Cornicelli expressed her admiration for Little Li's simple yet profound actions, stating, "Through her simple acts of venerating the desecrated body of her Lord, her Lord made her a witness to religious freedom." Little Li's devotion and reverence for the Eucharist served as a testament to the significance of religious freedom, even in the face of persecution and adversity.

By highlighting Little Li's story, Cornicelli emphasized the transformative power of faith and the profound impact an individual's commitment to their religious beliefs can have on the notion of religious freedom.

Little Li lived during the Communist takeover of China, where her church was attacked and her priest imprisoned. Witnessing the desecration of the Eucharist, she chose to secretly observe Holy Hour each night, consuming one host with reverence. After 32 nights, as she consumed the last remaining host, a communist soldier fatally shot her. Sofia Cornicelli learned from Little Li's story that one can promote religious liberty without being a frontline fighter or activist. Little Li's devotion exemplified the power of quiet acts of faith and highlighted the importance of religious freedom in the face of persecution.

Cornicelli further emphasized the significance of Little Li's story, stating, "It just teaches us that the little things we do also have an impact." She highlighted the broader context of the essay, noting that Religious Freedom Week spans from June 22, the feast of Sts. Thomas More and John Fisher, to June 29. During this week, the USCCB urges Catholics to engage in prayer, reflection, and actions that promote religious freedom. By sharing Little Li's story, Cornicelli aimed to inspire others to recognize the profound impact even small acts can have in advocating for and upholding religious freedom.