Back to school with God

The Back to School with God service has now become a major fixture in the community of Newhaven in Edinburgh. Based on interactive material produced by Scripture Union Scotland, the service takes place at the beginning of September each year and remembers all those involved in education. Everyone with a link to the congregation is encouraged to light a candle for their school or college, with the prayer that the light of Jesus might shine in each institution. Each candle has the name of the school on it and is lit from the central candle which represents Jesus, the light of the world. Many who have had links with the congregation come to pray for their school. This year the church had one of its largest congregations, including about 30 children and teenagers remembering their schools. They were particularly encouraged that they were able to follow up contacts made during the holiday club in July, including several families with no regular church connection. The children were able to take part in crafts before the service and most of the families stayed for brunch afterwards.