Back to School

As much as it pains me to say this, it's BACK TO SCHOOL time.  I am reminded of this as I'm out and about town.  N.C. State University had 4500 freshmen move into dormitories yesterday.  Both Meredith College and N.C. Central University in Durham have freshmen students moving in and scurrying around this weekend.  As for me, my first official faculty-staff meeting for the 2011-2012 academic year is Monday morning at 8:30 am.  I thought it to be very appropriate to lift up those who teach and learn in prayer today.

#31 Book of Common Prayer pg. 824
O Eternal God, bless all schools, colleges, and universitites [and especially ___________ ], that they may be lively centers for sound learning, new discovery, and the pursuit of wisdom; and grant that those who teach and those who learn may find you to be the source of all truth; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

A prayer for teachers:  KT
O God, source of all wisdom.  Grant those that you have entrusted to the vocation of teachers, a teachable spirit and a discerning heart, like that of Solomon.  Send them refreshing and encouragement, annoint them to recognize the gifts and potential of every student trusted to their care.  Grant them patience in all areas of their jobs, as well as grace and favor with the school administration and parents.  Strengthen and uphold them, through Christ our Lord.  Amen.

A prayer for students:  KT
God of all truth and knowledge, you said in your holy word, that if anyone lacks wisdom, let them ask.  Bless all who learn, study and work.  Grant them patience and perserverance under pressure and trying times of the school year.  Give all students a zeal to learn, and to share what they have learned with others.  Grant them teachable spirits and the awareness that intellect is a gift from you.  Help them to be ever respectful of their teachers and school administrators.  All this we ask in your Holy Name.  Amen

Here's to a wonderful school year, in Jesus' name.  We claim all victories inside and outside of the classroom.  The peace of God be always with you!

Karsten