A MESSAGE FROM LILY RAPPAPORT, ACTING DIRECTOR OF FAMILY MINISTRY
For many of us the new school year starts soon! The new year represents growth and change; moving to a new classroom, school, or town; more responsibility and maturity. Some of us are excited about new beginnings and some may feel anxious or worried about making the transition. Either way, it is a good opportunity for our congregation to mark a safe and successful year ahead and to embrace our call to learning.
This Sunday, August 20th, we will celebrate and commemorate a new year of learning. The backpack blessing will offer encouragement and support for all who are embarking on a year of spiritual growth. It is a valuable ritual within a faith family and one that many Unitarian Universalist congregations hold at the beginning of the school year. It is a wonderful way to bless part of our everyday lives, to connect Sunday and the rest of the week, and to lift up learning and growth and to encourage and support learners, no matter the age.
Whether you’re a student in school or a student of life, learning is a part of life no matter your age. All are invited to bring the bag they will carry on their journeys ahead to be blessed and filled with love by our UUCV community. This includes any and all the tools we use, throughout life, to help us learn. So bring your backpack, bookbag, briefcase, purse, laptop bag, lunch bag or anything that represents your return to school, whatever form school might take.
Let’s begin the journey into a new school year surrounded by the loving care and support of our wonderful UUCV community. See you on Sunday!
Lily Rappaport
Acting Director of Family Ministry