At the Start of a New Semester
It's the first day of classes! Are you excited?!?!?!
...Okay, maybe not. And that's fine, because I am! This morning, like every morning of the first day of a new semester, I went on a walk down Appian Way around 9:45, grinning at every student like a fool. And praying. Here's what I prayed for, and I'm sharing this because if you're a student, I prayed for YOU (yes, you!):
I prayed for you to be happy
I prayed for you to be true to yourself
I prayed for you to have integrity
I prayed for you to do well in class
I prayed for you to find new friends
I prayed for you to have courage
I prayed for you to seek and know the truth
I prayed for you to have confidence
I prayed for you to grow
I prayed for you to be blessed
I prayed for the intentions of your heart
I prayed for you to have clarity
I prayed for you to find community
I prayed for you to know your value
I prayed for you to know that you're loved
I prayed for you to have a good day
I prayed for you to have a good first week
I prayed for you to hvae a good semester
I prayed for you to have a good year
I prayed for YOU! And I also lifted up each and every one of you by name in front of the Blessed Sacrament this morning, and prayed for those whose names I don't know because I haven't met them yet. Be blessed this semester.
If you're looking to add your own prayers to the excitement and anticipation of today, here's a great one:
Prayer
for a New Semester
Lord, as we prepare for the coming of a new semester, make us ready, attentive and available to hear You. Thank You for the gift of being able to rise each day with the assurance that You walk through it with us.
Thank You for the gifts of creativity and uniqueness, and the energy to put them to good use.
May all that we are today, all that we try to do today, may all our encounters, reflections, even the frustrations and failings all be placed in your hands.
May the work we do and the way we do it, bring new hope, new life, and courage to all we come in contact with this semester.
We thank you Lord. Amen.
