Great Ideas that Work

Blessing of the Backpacks

Here is a suggestion for the beginning of the school year for children. At S. Paul’s, Prince Frederick we have a Blessing of the Backpacks the Sunday when we have sign up for Sunday School classes. During our service at announcement time the children and school teachers are invited to the front for a blessing. Weeks before this Sunday we remind everyone to bring their book bags, brief case, satchel or even just pencil and paper to be blessed. After the prayer holy water is sprinkled on children and adults alike. Not wanting the congregation to be left out, I then sprinkle everyone in sight! Children then receive a Christian themed key ring to remind them that they are a blessing to us and most of all are blessed by God. At this service we also commission Sunday School teachers.

Below is a prayer that I have used and continually modify each year. The prayer incorporates words for Schools and Colleges.

Blessing of the Backpacks

God of truth, teach us to love you with our heart and mind. We ask you to watch over all schools and colleges, especially those to whom we send the students from St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. May they be lively centers for sound learning, new discovery and the pursuit of wisdom. Give all who teach and all who learn the love of truth, and in humility look to you, the source of all truth and understanding.

Send your Spirit to guide, guard, and protect each student in all their activities throughout each day. Bless them, Lord, and their backpacks and school equipment which we dedicate to you in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen

Submitted by:
The Rev. Julie C. Wizorek
410-535-2987
stpaulsepis@verizon.net