CDC and K-8 families packed Trinity Lutheran Church for Back-to-School Weekend. The Back to School Open House events include special Opening Worship Services for our 400 students and their families every year.
A favorite highlight of these worship services is the annual “Blessing of Backpacks” led this year by Pastor Larry Schaefer. Students received a cross to carry in their backpacks as a reminder that Jesus is a constant companion each day of school, and the congregation prayed a blessing over the backpacks as the children gathered in front of the altar. The children came away with the assurance that Jesus walks with them, every day, during their school year.
God, You are the creator of heaven and earth. You have given us an incredible world and so many amazing people. We ask you to bless each of these students and use these backpacks as reminders that what they learn in their classes, is ultimately learning about You. Help them when there is a hard test. Remind them that they are your children and you have blessed them with the ability to learn. Bless their teachers. Bless their families. Let their gifts come shining through so that everyone can see You living in them. Amen.
School teachers were dedicated during these opening worship services as well — our Trinity Lutheran School CDC and K-8 teachers as well as those in worship who teach at local public, private, magnet and parochial schools in our community.
Pastor Schaefer reminded everyone in worship (by tossing a ball in church!) that you have to keep your eye on the ball or all sorts of unwanted things can happen. The “ball” in this case is JESUS! Pastor Schaefer told our students that their pastor, church, parents, and teachers will be reminding them all year long to, “Keep your eyes on Jesus!” At weekly chapels, in the classrooms, at Trinity activities — the purpose is to keep reminding our students and Trinity families to keep their eyes on Jesus, to remind them that Jesus is here with us and caring for us, even when life it difficult, even when we’re afraid, that Jesus is here for us. (Sermon Audio from 11am worship)
Pastor Schaefer reminded those in attendance that everyone is invited to worship at Trinity, and also encouraged parents whose children aren’t yet baptised to feel welcome to ask their child’s teacher or contact the church ministry staff to talk more about it.
The Back-to-School Open House Weekend included these celebratory moments:
- An informal Meet & Greet with teachers in new classrooms
- Unpacking all of those school supplies
- Sharing stories of summer fun with classmates
- Sizzling Summer Matrix awards
- Pulled-pork lunches by Chef Poole
- And best of all, a schedule and new routine for families after the long summer break!
Jesus’ command, and the purpose of Trinity Lutheran School are foundational principles to keep in mind at the start of the 2017-18 academic year:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV)
TLS Purpose Statement: “Trinity Lutheran School promotes academic excellence, nurtures personal relationships with God, and prepares all children to lead reesponsible, purpose-filled lives for Christ.”
This is sure to be another faith-filled and fun school year at Trinity Lutheran School!
Helpful Links to Stay Connected
Church & School Full Event Calendar – Parent Resource Page
Trinity Lutheran Church Weekly News – Trinity Sermons – Bible Study