Back to School, Back to God: facing a new season with faith
As September arrives and the summer holidays come to a close, we find ourselves returning to familiar routines—early mornings, packed lunches, school runs, and the flurry of schedules. For many families, this season marks the beginning of a new school year: a time of anticipation, opportunity, and understandably, anxiety.
Whether you're a student stepping into a new classroom, a parent watching your child grow up too fast, a teacher preparing lesson plans, or a grandparent praying from the sidelines, the start of the school year stirs many emotions—hope, fear, excitement, and uncertainty.
In these moments, it’s good to be reminded that our God is not distant from our daily rhythms. He is present in classrooms, corridors, playgrounds, and homes. The Scriptures assure us: “The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” — Psalm 121:8
Whatever our age or role, transitions can be daunting. Children may worry about making friends or keeping up in class. Parents may feel anxious about letting go or meeting new demands. Teachers may feel overwhelmed by the weight of their responsibilities. And yet, we are not alone in any of this.
Jesus, who welcomed children and blessed them (Mark 10:14–16), reminds us that God values even the smallest among us. The same Jesus who calmed storms and fed multitudes walks with us into school playgrounds and staff rooms.
Let us also remember Paul's words to the Philippians: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” — Philippians 4:6
This is a season for prayer—not just for good school results and healthy lunches, but for peace, patience, kindness, and wisdom. Let us pray for our children: that they may learn and grow in confidence. Let us pray for our educators: that they may teach with joy and compassion. Let us pray for families: that homes may be places of support and understanding.
And as a parish, let us recommit ourselves to being a community that supports our young people and their families—not only in word, but in presence and action. Could we offer a silent prayer during Sunday worship for teachers and students? Could we visit that single parent we know to offer support?
This new school year offers each of us a chance to grow in faith and service. May we face it with courage, knowing that: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.” — Proverbs 9:10
May the love and peace of Jesus go with every student, teacher, and parent this year, and may our parish continue to be a place where all are formed in faith, grounded in love, and guided by hope.
Daniel Khan