Huntley church begins school year with Backpack Blessings

The beginning of each new school year is celebrated at Shepherd of the Prairie Lutheran Church in Huntley with its traditional “Back to School Backpack Blessings” given by Senior Pastor Mark Boster and Pastor Ryan Mackey.

On the weekend of Aug. 10-11 during all services, a special blessing was invoked to honor kindergartners and all other students for their experiences and academic success in the upcoming 2024-25 school year.

A separate blessing was held for teachers to give them strength and inspiration while providing guidance for their students, too.

“We began our kindergarten blessing tradition in 2004,” said Pastor Boster, “and it has truly been a blessing for all of us the past 20 years. We encourage the children not to fear school and to know our church family is praying for them and that God is with them wherever they are, even in school.”

“Our traditional backpack blessings for the other students began in 2006 so that their school year will go well and the students will have a great year of learning to be better equipped to serve God. It is also important to include our teachers and administrators who also stand up for a special blessing, too, as they need our prayers and support.”

The church at 10805 Main St. has now served the Huntley community for over 20 years. For information, call (847) 669-9448. Visit www.shepherdoftheprairie.com and follow on Facebook.