Dear God,

as we get ready to start another year in school,

we ask your blessing on these backpacks,

and especially on these children who will wear them.

As they do the very important work of being students,

bless them with:

eagerness to learn, that their world may grow large;

respect for teachers and students,

that they may form healthy relationships;

love for nature,

that they may become caretakers of your creation;

happiness when learning is easy

and stick-to-it-iveness when it is hard;

faith in Jesus as their best teacher and closest friend.

We ask that you would protect these, your own children.

Watch over them and keep them safe

as they travel to and from school.

As they learn, help them also to discover

the different gifts that you have given each one of them

to be used in your work in the world.

As they hear the many voices that will fill their days,

help them to listen most carefully for your voice,

the one that tells them you will love them always,

no matter what.

We ask this in Jesus’ name.

Amen.