Catholic blessing at the beginning of the school year - blessing of the students and their backpacks

Let us pray:

God of wisdom and knowledge, we pray for the beginning of the school year as we bless our students and their backpacks today.  

First of all, we ask that you bless our teachers and our school administrators, that you affirm therm and their calling, in their sacred vocation to teach our students.   We ask that you make all our schools lively centers of sound learning, new discovery, and the pursuit of wisdom.

We thank you for each student. Lead them in your way, your truth, and your life. Let each classroom they enter be a place of life and light, warmth and welcome, discovery and growth. Give them good friends and let them be good friends for others. Set them at tasks which demand their best efforts. Lead them to accomplishments which satisfy and delight. 

We ask for a blessing for our parents, for their support and efforts to help their children receive a sound education and to be formed in the values of our faith.  Encourage our parents on their journey with their children. 

Send your holy angels to stand guard and keep watch over our students, teachers, and families, keeping them safe and protected.  May our Blessed Mother Mary and all our saints accompany them always.  

Bless these our students and their backpacks. May they always feel the divine love and support of our Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, and the love, support, and prayers of our parish family.