Dear Lord, as we begin this new school year, we gather as a community of believers, a family of your children.
We thank you for the renewal of the past months and our safe return to this place.
We thank you for the promise of the days ahead and for the blessing of your accompaniment. Be with us this year.
Open our hearts to become people with and for others.
Help us to be studious, open to growth, religious, loving and committed to doing justice.
Keep us safe in body and spirit.
Let us be gentle with ourselves while striving to serve your greater glory.
And may we always be a source of support, encouragement, happiness and love to others.
We ask this in your name.
Amen