Back To School Prayer (by the National Prayer Team)
Dear Heavenly Father,
As children, youth and young adults return to school for another year of learning, we entrust them to Your loving care, guidance and protection. They are precious to us, and we are thankful that they are even more precious to You.
We pray for all those who teach, lead and support them. Give educators wisdom, patience, compassion and strength as they help their students grow in knowledge, understanding and character. May classrooms and campuses be places of discovery and creativity, where students are encouraged to explore the wonder of Your creation, develop the gifts You have given them, and grow into the people You have created them to be.
Be especially near to those who approach this new school year with uncertainty or fear. Comfort the child entering a classroom for the first time, the student beginning at a new school, the young adult leaving home, and the parent learning to let go. Give them courage for what is new, peace in moments of anxiety, and the assurance that You are always with them.
Be with everyone impacted by the back-to-school transition: children, youth, young adults, parents, teachers, administrators and support staff. Bless their relationships and their work. For those who know You as Lord and Saviour, may they be shining lights of Your goodness, grace and love wherever You have placed them.
Surround them with Your peace and protection. Guide them with Your wisdom. Give them kindness toward those who are lonely, courage to stand for what is right, perseverance when learning is difficult, and humility to ask for help when they need it.
May this school year be filled not only with growth in knowledge and understanding, but also with growth in faith, character and love.
We entrust this new school year to You, confident that wherever they go, You go with them.
In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
An additional prayer for students:
Dear Lord
Use my eyes to notice someone who needs a friend.
Open my ears to listen and learn.
Help my mind to discover new things.
Remind my heart that You are near when I am worried or afraid.
Help me to be kind, patient and loving to others.
Give me courage to do what is right.
Help me use the gifts You have given me.
And wherever I go today, help me shine Your light.
Amen.
