Church starts school year with backpack blessing

When Rogan Allen, of Cuyahoga Falls, and Abby Fletcher and Tyler Spicer, of Stow, head off to school this week, they’ll be carrying backpacks that are bright, colorful and blessed.

The three friends, who started school this week, were joined by more than 30 youngsters — from preschoolers up to college students — for a special backpack blessing at Stow Presbyterian Church on Sunday.

 “Kids are an important part of our church,” said Elder and Children's Ministry Director Monica Albright, who assisted Pastor David Weyrick, in wishing the children well for the upcoming school year.

“The Backpack Blessing is an opportunity for families and others to connect with a community of folks who care. Stow Presbyterian is a place where the entire family can belong,” Pastor Weyrick said. “The backpack is just an excuse. We really want to bless the kids, teachers, staff, administrators, secretaries, cooks, librarians, janitors and bus drivers.”

Each student received an aluminum cross carabiner for their backpack to help remind them of God's love and kindness, and laminated prayer cards were distributed to all of the teachers and students.

Stow Presbyterian Church is located at 4150 Fishcreek Road. For more information on the church, go online to www.stowpres.org, call 330-688-6935 or email info@stowpres.org.