Prayer at the Beginning of the 2026–2027 School Year

Approximately 75 women from several churches of the Pacific Coast Slavic Baptist Association gathered at Second Slavic Church for a prayer dinner dedicated to the new 2026–2027 school year.

The gathering took place on the evening of August 28 in a simple and welcoming atmosphere. Seated in small groups around round tables, the women praised the Lord for His mercy and for who He is in their lives. Specially prepared cards containing passages from the Book of Psalms were used to guide this time of worship.

The participants were also given information about new California education laws and the challenges children and teachers currently face in schools. Despite the troubling facts and statistics, the women were encouraged to pray earnestly for their spiritual legacy and the next generation, for educational programs, teachers, and schools, and for the fear of God to dwell in the hearts of all people.

The women reflected on the kinds of changes they hoped to see in their children: changes that are superficial, outward, and Pharisaical, or changes that are deep, inward, rooted in the heart, and evident first and foremost before God.

Scripture passages were read about the fear of God and about how the practical application of the gospel in the lives of mothers and grandmothers influences the choices and lifestyles of their children and grandchildren, their relationships with their spouses, and the spiritual growth of Christian families.

True, reverent fear of God does not drive a person away from Him. Instead, it draws people to God and motivates them to seek Him. It reveals His holiness, helps sinners understand what they deserve because of their sins, and at the same time strengthens their hope in God’s mercy and grace. The Lord is slow to anger, patient, and abounding in mercy.

In Exodus 20:20, Moses comforts the people who were frightened by the thunder, lightning, and sound of the trumpet at Mount Sinai: “Do not fear; for God has come to test you, and that His fear may be before you, so that you may not sin.”

Moses then draws near to God. True fear of God leads a person to obey Him, following the example of our Lord Jesus Christ, who was obedient even to death on the cross (Philippians 2:5–11).

May the Lord bless each of us to walk steadfastly in reverent fear before Him and to work out our salvation with fear and trembling until the day of His appearing. May He also stir the hearts of many more mothers to pray for their children and their schools.

T. V. Senina
Moms in Prayer Ministry
Phone: (916) 270-7545