Dear Siblings in Christ,
The new school-year is soon upon us and there are a variety of simple ways you and your parish can support students and teachers as they return to the classroom.
1. Give! Many teachers must buy some of their own supplies. Contact the school closest to your parish and ask what supplies your parish can collect to support the teachers. One educator in our diocesan household affirms that a simple box of Sharpie markers would make her so happy! Simple items such as tissues and Post-It notes are often overlooked and are highly sought after.
2. Pray! Look to see what day the new school-year begins in your area, and consider including a Blessing of Backpacks or prayers for the new school-year in worship the Sunday prior (likely on either August 30 or September 6).
Blessing of Students and Educators
Eternal God, father of our Lord Jesus Christ, our great teacher and savior, bless these your servants as they begin the school-year. Your Son was once himself a child learning and teaching in the temple. Grant that all who enter places of learning as students and educators this year be filled with your grace and heavenly wisdom—that all their efforts be directed by your Holy Spirit, and work to your praise and glory. Amen.
Prayer for Instruments of Teaching and Learning
Almighty God, we bring before you these instruments of teaching and of learning. We pray that your Holy Spirit of wisdom go forth with all who carry them this year: that all bearers of briefcases and of backpacks will rest secure in the knowledge of your abiding strength, peace and love. May they, like the young Jesus, grow in wisdom, in stature, and in favor with God and with society. Amen.
If you have children in your parish, invite them to bring their backpacks to church for a blessing during worship at a time that makes sense for your parish.
3. Show up! Okay, so this one is a little more involved. These days in Vermont, there is a lot of anxiety in our communities about the possibility of school mergers, budget cuts, and teacher retention issues. Find out when the school board in your area meets and attend a meeting to learn the specifics affecting your local district. A portion of the meeting may occur in executive session, so plan ahead to see if you can indeed attend.
Young people are not only the future of our communities; they are a vibrant part of our present steps and breaths. The reign of God is near, and Jesus is inviting us to step on in.
In Christ,
The Rev. Sarah Ginolfi, youth missioner
