Guest blogger: Lindsey Douglas

It is a special time of year… a time of new beginnings for children starting back to a new school year.

There are a significant number of children that aren’t having the feeling of anticipation and excitement of a new school year. Perhaps they are anxious about not having the teacher they hope for, or not being in the same class as their best friends. Unfortunately, for many, they are anxious that they won’t have the things they need to start school and will have to start the year off without the proper supplies.

Porter is a very lucky kid to have such a loving church family to ease the concerns and anxiety that a new school year brings. Every year we ‘bless the backpacks’ and collect school supplies for children at Central Elementary.

Blessing the backpacks has been one of my favorite traditions. It is a way to remind all of the youth that even if there are fears about a new school year, Jesus is with them. The blessing comes with a reminder that Jesus is there, and to set aside worries and put faith in God.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord, your God, will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9

I also appreciate the tradition of collecting school supplies for Central Elementary and the opportunity to help other children have a good start to the new school year. HPC has been collecting school supplies every year for the four years we have been attending. This is a great giving act that can continue to make a positive impact on youth in our community.

A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25

Porter and I look forward to doing volunteer activities together every year.  Poverbs 11:25 puts words to the refreshed feeling when giving, and I am thankful that I can share that with my son as well.

The efforts of the HPC family to help the children in our congregation by the blessing of the backpacks and providing supplies to Central Elementary children combine two traditions to have a wonderful impact to starting the school year off right!

Join us Sunday, August 11th as we bless our backpacks at both services 10:30 am & 5:00 pm