A prayer for a "new" church year

It is that time of year. As we head into a new church program year (Rally Day is September 7!), we face more than just a change in season.

We look forward to gathering as a community, yet know that each of us is busier than ever. Courtesy of PC(USA), below is a prayer* for you, your family, and your congregation as we face the start of a "new" year:

O God, gather us back, gather us in, and surround us with community and your grace as classes kick off, studies return, and opportunities for formation and fellowship begin anew.

By your Spirit, walk with families as they resume familiar or even new routines of school and activities as time together becomes scarce again.

Support church staff and volunteers as they re-engage faithful people through worship, study, fellowship and prayer.

By your grace, grant us all a renewed spirit as we prepare for our stewardship season, the quickly approaching Advent season, curriculum changes, and session and committee meetings.

Strengthen us for the journey ahead by providing us with energy, wisdom, and enthusiasm for the mission and ministry we do in your holy name. Remind us of your love when the days are long, the task list seems to never end and the emails pile up. Give us the gift of levity and help us know that you, O God, are with us every step of the way.

Amen.

*"A Prayer for the Church Program Year" - Shared with permission from Presbyterian Church (USA), Special Offerings