Creator God, who parents us all,
hold my heart as I practice letting go;
hold this child as a school day begins.
Every day my child is more aware
of this beautiful, hurting, complex world.
As their mind grows in understanding
may they also grow in faith,
seeking and finding your presence, Lord.
Be to them a constant friend through
the crowded and lonely hallways
of these formative years.
When they feel anxious or insecure,
remind them they are loved.
When they feel pressure to impress
and prove their worth to peers,
remind them they are already loved.
When they make mistakes, great and small,
and feel the sting of shame,
remind them that no matter what,
they are fiercely and completely loved.
May this buoyancy of belonging
fill them with a confidence
to extend your generosity toward others.
May they have humility to learn from those
who are different from them,
and a soft heart for those who are struggling.
May each of their own hurts become a
source of empathy and compassion,
fueling the courage to choose kindness
over what is popular or easy.
May they see themselves as part of
your kingdom already breaking through,
shining light into shadows
with every action done in love.
Creator God, who parents us all,
hold my heart as I practice letting go,
hold this child as a school day begins.
In Jesus name, Amen,
From Every Moment Holy, “A Liturgy for Dropping a Child at School,” Alli R. Dahlgren