The mornings and the evenings are a little cooler, the sun is setting a little earlier in the night, even a few leaves are changing colour on the trees. All signs that fall is quickly approaching. For many families, that means school is right around the corner. For some of us, nothing notably different will happen in our homes, as there are no children near. Still there is a sense of new beginnings and a longing for routine that swirls around us.

With the new school year comes a multitude of emotions, ranging from excitement to anxiousness, sometimes all mixed together. September brings so many possibilities.

Can you picture the littlest ones starting preschool programs, and those entering kindergarten for the first time? Do you remember wondering about your new teacher or what your new school would be like? I vividly remember getting lost in the hallways and forgetting my locker combination in high school. Can you empathize with the parent letting go and driving away from campus or navigating the ‘adulting’ rules for the students who are at home?

Do you remember those days? Do you remember the frenzy of emotions? Do you remember the joy of seeing friends again and the dread of homework? Do you remember the first day photos and the bedtime tears?

You are not alone. God is with you all the time.

Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”

Amberlea's Family Ministry desires to support the family to live a life of faith as Jesus taught us. We desire to come alongside families of all ages, shapes and sizes and doing life right where you’re at.

We want to remind you that you are not alone. God has given us, His church, the amazing opportunity to demonstrate that to you. Let us bless you at the start of this new school year.

Attend the Backpack Blessing service on Sunday, September 11 at 11am. Bring your backpack, briefcase, purse, bag to church and together we will bless students of all ages, teachers and school staff and your bags. If you can’t attend, no worries. Gather your bags at home and participate in the blessing online as a family. You will find the Sunday Worship Service on YouTube.

Sound a little odd? We will take the item you carry around the most and use it as a reminder of God’s great love and ask for His favour and protection as you go forward.

Invite a friend, neighbour or grandchild. You might be surprised who might come.

Not sure how to participate? Just come and bless others. Or you are welcome to bless others at the start of this new school year by bringing in donations of school lunch and snack supplies for the Food Bank.

Let us bless you. Come on Sunday, September 11 at 11am. Don’t forget your backpack!

Submitted by Nancy Varga
Family Ministries Director
Amberlea Church