A Prayer for the Beginning of a New School Year

“Take, O take me as I am; summon out what I shall be; set your seal upon my heart and live in me.”

Lord God of all, we thank you and praise you for the men and women you have drawn together here in this place—your children who have come here empowered by your Spirit with the gifts and passion to serve and honor you.

We thank you for the faith communities represented here, which have formed and taught your children to walk in the path of Christ.

We thank you for the community here at Calvin Theological Seminary, not only an academic institution, but your daughters and sons gathering together to worship you and love each other.

We praise you for the story of redemption and salvation, which has become our story. We thank you that at Calvin Seminary we can learn and grow and be equipped to share this story throughout the world.

We pray for each of the new students here, who come with excitement and energy, but also anxiety about what lies ahead.

We pray for sharp minds and discipline in their studies, and sensitivity to your Spirit and call.

We pray for the families of these students, who have joined them on this journey of education. We pray for patience, encouragement, and love.

We pray for the faculty. We pray that you will enliven in them a renewed vigor for the material in their classes and for the training of women and men for your service.

We pray for the staff, for their supportive and strengthening role to both the students and the faculty throughout this coming year.

As we begin this journey together—new students, families, faculty, and staff—we desire, Lord, this morning and every morning that you take us as we are. Take us as you have created us, and use us. Touch us, live in us, and make us yours for your service and for your glory.

In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.

By Vanessa Lake, Administrative Assistant to the Vice President of Academic Affairs, 8/23/10