As the 2019-20 school year drew near, families from across the Grand Rapids area gathered to be inspired and, more importantly, to pray for students' success.
The Blessing of the Students brought together families from our Catholic schools, other Christian schools, public schools and charter schools. Community and school officials, including Superintendent of Catholic Schools Dave Faber, offered words of encouragement to everyone in attendance. Then, prayers were said by area ministers, such as Rev. Andrew Ayers, co-chaplain of West Catholic High School and associate pastor of Our Lady of Consolation Parish. There were also musical performances and even a dance routine offering praise to God.
Blessing of the Students was coordinated by Ms. Veruynca Williams of Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church. She first began the event 26 years ago when her sons were leaving for college, and in following years it became a tradition to send students off to school this way. Blessing of the Students was held at Grand Rapids Christian High School on August 18.
See event photos in the gallery at this link.