It’s that time again—backpacks are packed, buses are rolling, and the first day of school is officially here for Oconee County! Other schools nearby are also kicking off a new year soon, and you can just feel the buzz of excitement in the air.
Here’s a little secret about me: I love shopping for school supplies. There’s just something about a fresh pack of crayons, a crisp notebook, or the satisfying snap of a new binder that fills me with joy. But every year, as I stroll through those aisles, I’m reminded that some of the most important supplies can’t be bought at a store. Things like courage, patience, flexibility, kindness, perseverance, protection, and grace—those come straight from God. And they’re just as essential (if not more so!) for the school year ahead.
So this year, let’s make it a point to lift up our students, teachers, and school staff in prayer. Let’s ask God to fill their classrooms—and their hearts—with peace, strength, and joy, every single day.
Speaking of supplies—WOW! Your generosity during the Christian Women’s Fellowship School Supply Drive truly astounded me. You showed up with full hearts and open hands, making sure local kids had what they needed to start the year strong. Thank you for being a church that gives so generously and loves so well.
This month, CWF is focusing on a different group of school heroes: bus drivers! These early morning and late afternoon champions get our kids to and from school safely each day. We’re collecting individually wrapped snacks all month long as a way to say, “We see you, and we’re thankful.” You can drop your snacks off in the Gathering Space anytime in August!
And don’t forget—our Sunday afternoon programs for kids and youth start this Sunday! Kids meet at 3:00 PM, and youth gather at 4:00 PM. Please join me in praying that this new season will equip our young people to carry Christ’s love with them—whether they’re in classrooms, on ball fields, at lunch tables, or wherever life takes them.
Union Church, thank you for being a community that prays boldly, gives generously, and welcomes all of God’s children with open arms. I’m so thankful to walk this journey with you
Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do too!