Back to School Blessing for students, educators

A local church is helping to prepare students and educators for a successful school year.

New Beginnings Church in Hollister is offering a Back to School Blessing in preparation for the 2026-27 school year.

Set for August 23, the Blessing will be held during the morning service. Children, teachers and all involved in the field of education, will be invited to come to the front of the church, where they will be prayed over by pastors and church leaders.

"As families prepare for a new school year by gathering school supplies, backpacks and new clothes, we believe one of the most important things we can send our children back to school with is prayer," explained Tiffany Salomon, Director of Ministries at New Beginnings Church. "A new school year brings excitement, opportunities, challenges and uncertainty, and we want every child to know they are loved and covered in prayer before they step into the classroom. We pray for God's protection, wisdom, confidence, friendships and for them to be a light wherever they go. It is a meaningful moment for both the children and their families."

Salomon continued, "After praying over the students, we also invite any teachers, school staff, administrators, homeschool parents or anyone serving in education to come forward so our church family can pray over them, as well. They have an incredible responsibility in shaping the next generation, and we want them to know they are supported and covered in prayer as they begin another school year."

In addition to offering a special back to school prayer, New Beginnings Church is celebrating the students and educators by providing each with a special gift, and allowing parents or family members a memorable photo opportunity in a back to school photo booth, as well. Following the service, everyone is invited to enjoy ice cream and inflatables on the church campus.

"It is a fun way to celebrate the beginning of a new school year while reminding our children that they have an entire church family cheering them on," Salomon explained. "Our hope is that every student and educator leaves knowing they are not walking into this school year alone."

New Beginnings Church is located at 151 Elm Street in Hollister. The Back to School Blessing will be held on Sunday, August 23, during the Sunday morning service, which begins at 10:30 a.m.