Holy One,
Source of All Wisdom,
guard and protect us as we begin a new year.
Give us a thirst for knowledge,
and the will to use it for good,
and for the good of our communities.
We give you thanks, O Lord, for schools:
for the teachers and staff who guide and care for students,
who feed them and tend to their minds and their spirits,
who encourage them to curiosity and deeper understanding,
and inspire them to the fulfillment of their dreams.
May we honor and support them
in our prayers and in our actions at all times.
We give you thanks for students, O God:
may we see each one as beloved and precious;
may we care for them as our own;
may we help them believe in themselves.
May we inspire within them self-discipline,
compassion, integrity, service,
initiative, creativity, and responsibility.
May we help them have the willingness to begin
the courage to evaluate and learn from error,
and the strength to persevere in adversity.
God of Mercy and Truth,
envelop us in your grace,
strengthen us in hope and faith,
and pour out your blessing and peace
upon all for whom we pray.
Amen.
