Loving God,
parent and companion to us all,
hold the precious children and young people
in your loving care as they begin a new school year.
Nurture in them a sense of wonder.
Keep their curiosity alive,
their imaginations wide,
and their hearts open to the joy of discovering something new.
May the spark of creativity, possibility, and adventure
continue to burn brightly within them.
Give them courage to ask questions,
freedom to dream,
and confidence to become who they are meant to be.
Surround them with people who see their worth
and meet them with kindness, patience, and respect.
Protect them from harm,
from cruelty and fear,
and from words and ideas that diminish the dignity of others.
And may they be a source of kindness, courage,
and welcome to those around them.
Bless them as they learn and grow,
as they make friends, face challenges,
discover their gifts, and find their own light.
May they shine in the ways that are uniquely theirs—and
may every child be surrounded by the love, care, and hope they need to flourish.
Amen