Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Last month, Lynn Kokolus wrote about the situation with the food banks locally. This month, Bonnie Jean Baron from our online community offers a reflection about “Back to School”. I’d love to have people write a reflection once a month about something that might be of interest to the community. Please send me a note and let me know if you would be willing. Now, to Bonnie’s thoughts.
Recalling my past, I remembered Les Paul and Mary Ford performing a commercial for Robert Hall clothing. The advertisement referenced school bells ringing and children singing, highlighting the return to Robert Hall for school clothes.
Every August, I feel the tug on my heartstrings as teachers, parents, and students gear up for another school year. As a retired K-8 teacher, I can remember checking in with the school secretary to see if the custodians would let the teachers back in their classrooms to prepare. Depending on what grade I was assigned, I would be writing welcome back notes to each student and buying my own 64-color box of Crayola crayons.
Now at 73, I am entering an online classroom at Northampton Community College for library courses. I still feel the excitement of getting my textbooks and meeting my professor and students, albeit via Zoom.
This is not my first online class. When my daughter began her college education and my granddaughter started Kindergarten, I decided to begin my rebirth into educational courses. I started with an online platform, “The Hive”, developed by Rev. Dr. Hillary Raining, which is a website that offers membership and free classes to support wellness and spiritual growth. Next, I turned my attention to a four-year study, with a once-a-week commitment via Zoom in 2020, to complete the program of Theological Education by Extension Education for Ministry by the School of Theology, the University of the South. The thrill of getting a certificate in May of 2024 was exhilarating.
Through the Grace of God, life has presented more educational opportunities and chances to learn, share knowledge, and develop new skills.
Here is a prayer from the Book of Common Prayer, page 824, for schools and colleges. O Eternal God, bless all schools, colleges, and universities that they may be lively centers for sound learning, new discovery, and the pursuit of wisdom; and grant that those who teach and those who learn may find you to be the source of all truth; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Cheers to new beginnings filled with learning and growth!
Bonnie Jean Baron
Praying daily with you, for our nation, our parishes, our teachers and schools, and the world,
Mo. Laura
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COMING UP!
- Now-October 22 Boscov’s Friends Helping Friends Fundraiser: signup sheetattached
- September 14 Memorial Garden Service, following 9:00 a.m. service
- September 14 Animal Food Bank In-gathering – Needed: dry dog and cat food (bags – 20# or less), gift cards for local pet stores
- October 3 5:30-8:00 Pasta Potluck
- November 14 7:00 Poor Man’s Gambit Concert
- November 16 9:00 ST. MARGARET’S DAY SERVICE and Reception
- Wednesday evenings, yoga class at 6:00 (discount for St. M members)
- Wednesdays, noonday prayer via zoom at 12:00
- Saturdays, Seventh Day Adventist congregation, 9:00-3:00