This Friday, students across Bulloch County will sharpen their pencils, sling on their backpacks, and walk into a brand new school year. In our house, the first day is a blend of nerves, excitement, and a whole lot of logistics—packed lunches, photo ops, and pep talks. Whether you’re sending your first little one to preschool or waving goodbye to a high schooler as they pull out of the driveway, the start of a new season brings a shift in rhythm for all of us.
And I believe that’s a gift.
There’s something about the start of a school year that feels like pressing “reset.” There are new calendars, new classes, and new commitments. Not to mention new opportunities to grow in faith, build better habits, and reconnect with community.
At Pittman Park, we’re embracing this season as an opportunity to be intentional in our lives and faith. Our Level Up sermon series kicks off this Sunday, and it’s all about choosing to grow in our faith, in our relationships, and growing together as families and as a church. Each week, we’ll offer practical ways to center your life on what matters most. Because we know that growth doesn’t happen by accident, it takes intention, teamwork, and a whole lot of grace.
As we step into this new season, I want to invite you to pause and pray with me. Let’s lift up our students, families, teachers, and staff, and ask God to meet us all in this moment of new beginnings.
A Back-to-School Prayer
Loving God,
As a new school year begins, we lift before you all who are stepping into fresh starts and new rhythms.
Bless our students.
Fill them with curiosity that leads to discovery, courage to face challenges, and friendships that nurture kindness, joy, and belonging. May their classrooms be places of wonder, growth, and grace.
Bless our parents.
Grant them wisdom for decisions both big and small, patience for early mornings and late-night assignments, and peace in the midst of packed schedules and endless to-do lists. Strengthen their hearts as they care, support, and cheer on their children.
Bless our teachers and school staff.
Renew their strength each day. Inspire their creativity. Give them compassion in every interaction and a deep sense of purpose as they shape young minds and nurture young hearts. Let them know how deeply their work matters.
And bless us as a church family.
Remind us of our calling to walk alongside the next generation—with love that listens, encouragement that empowers, and grace that reflects your heart. Help us be the kind of community where every child and every family knows they are seen, known, and loved.
Lord, help us level up this fall. Help us grow deeper in faith, stronger in love, and more united in purpose.
In Jesus’ name we pray,
Amen.
I can’t wait to see what God will do through you, and through us this fall.
Let’s Level Up together!
God bless,
Jonathan Smith
For Jesus. For People. For Community.