Schools across the diocese join together in prayer

Church of England schools across the Diocese of Oxford are being invited to join together today, Wednesday 9 September, for the National Day of Prayer for Schools.

As a new academic year begins, the diocese is giving thanks for all our schools and praying for the children and young people, staff, governors, families and communities who make up their school communities.

Today is also an opportunity for the diocese to say thank you to every school for all that you do, day in and day out, for children and young people and for the communities you serve. We give thanks for the dedication of teachers, support staff, governors and everyone who helps our schools to be places where children and young people can learn, grow and flourish.

Praying for every school

Here at Church House Oxford, diocesan staff are marking the day by praying for every school in the Diocese of Oxford by name, including each school’s headteacher and chair of governors, during Morning Prayer.

There is also a Prayer Wall in the Chapel, where people can add prayers for schools, individuals and communities throughout the day.

Janine Coaker, Chaplaincy and Collective Worship Adviser, said:

“We hope that Wednesday 9 September will be a joyful opportunity for schools across the Diocese to know that they are part of something much bigger – a community of schools being held in prayer.”

The day is an opportunity to give thanks for all that happens in our schools and to pray for the year ahead – for wisdom and strength for those who lead and teach, for flourishing and opportunity for children and young people, and for care and support for anyone who may be finding the new school year difficult.

A prayer for our schools

Loving God,

We give you thanks for our schools,
for every child and young person,
for every teacher and member of staff,
for governors, families and communities.

Thank you for all that makes each school special
and for the opportunities a new academic year brings.

Give wisdom and courage to those who lead and teach.
Give patience and strength to those who care for others.
Be close to those who are worried, lonely or struggling,
and help every member of our school communities
to know that they are valued and loved.

May our schools be places of welcome,
kindness, justice and hope,
where everyone can learn, flourish and discover their gifts.

Guide us through this new academic year
and help us to work together for the good of every child and young person.

Amen.