Back-To-School Blessings

Today, as we begin a new school year, we take a moment to recognize and bless our students, parents, and teachers.

To the parents, grandparents, and all in this community that help to care for these young people, I remind you of these words from Proverbs: “Train children in the way they should go; when they grow old, they won’t depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6, CEB). Their success in the classroom can be aided and even amplified by the love, support, and direction you provide to them. Many times throughout the Bible, God tasks parents and caretakers with the responsibility of participating in the education of children.

O God, bless now these families. Fill their homes with joy and their hearts with love. Give them energy, strength, and discernment as they raise these children. And remind them that we, their community and church family, are here to support them. Amen.

To the teachers who serve in our schools and at this church, I remind you that teaching is not only a profession but a calling. It is not simply a skill, but it is a spiritual gift. We thank you for the commitment you make to the students. We recognize that you do not simply recite information, but you teach our students how to learn, understand, and apply knowledge so that their dreams can come true as they continue to reach for stars.

Holy Spirit, the source of all wisdom, bless now these teachers. Fill their classrooms with learning and their hearts with compassion. Give them focus, patience, and creativity as they educate their students. And remind them that we, their community and church family, are here to support them. Amen.

To the students who stand before us today, I remind you of this promise that the Apostle Paul testifies to in the Scriptures: “The one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion…” (Philippians 1:6, NRSV). This means that while you are growing and learning at home and at school, God is working alongside of your parents and teachers to form you into the person God wants you to be. Listen to and respect both your parents and your teachers. The Bible tells us adults not to look down on you because you are young but to recognize that you can be an example to us in speech, behavior, love, and faith.

Lord Jesus, who welcomed the children and held up their faith as an example, bless now these students. Fill their schools with community and their hearts with wonder. Develop within them wisdom, integrity, and maturity as they learn and grow this year. And remind them that we, their community and church family, are here to support them. Amen.

O Lord, send your Spirit upon these students and the teachers and the parents and all those involved in the school system, and fill them with your wisdom and blessings. Grant that during this academic year they may devote themselves to their studies and share what they have learned from others. And may they be a support system to one another so that respect, kindness, and goodness take center stage in their life.

O Lord, bless the 2024-2025 Academic School Year in such a way that brings love, grace, protection, respect, and wisdom to all involved. In your precious name we pray, Amen.