Blessings for new beginnings at St Mary’s, Thame

St Mary’s Church in Thame hosts their annual blessing service, sending children and adults alike into new ventures with God’s encouragement and a badge that proudly says “I’ve been blessed.”

For at least five years, St Mary’s Church in Thame has marked the start of September with a joyful blessing service – and it’s become a much-loved tradition for families, guests and the wider community.

Advertised as an all-age service for “new ventures,” the blessing isn’t just for children heading back to school. Adults come forward with bags for work, university, travel, or any new chapter in life, to receive blessings and encouragement.

After a short reflection on new beginnings, those seeking a blessing are invited to the front. A member of the clergy offers words of thanks for schools, workplaces, colleagues, and the opportunities and challenges ahead.

Children hold out their bags while the clergy bless them, before everyone receives an ‘I’ve been blessed’ badge to take away as a reminder of God’s presence with them.

This simple but powerful service draws people of all ages into a moment of hope and encouragement – sending them out with God’s blessing as they step into what comes next.