By Larry P. Stover
Stover lives in Valley Grande and is pastor at Praise Park Ministries Church of the Nazarene

All cross the area our children and youth are heading back to the classroom.  There are always some jitters that go along with it, especially for those beginning a new school or a new level of academics.

With classes having started at most area schools this past week, another tradition is taking place next Sunday at many area schools.  “Prayer Walks” have become a highlight for many churches as a new school year begins.

In the past, many area churches have set up a wide array of times to meet at schools where their children and youth attend.  We have tried spending several hours traveling in a convoy from school to school. For this year, interested churches and pastors are trying to do one major thrust at 5 p.m.

Schools to date that are already part of this campaign include Dallas County High School, Martin Middle School, Valley Grande Elementary and Morgan Academy.  Others in the process of scheduling include J. E. Terry, Southside High School and Meadowview Christian School.

Please check with your pastors and youth leaders about activities at schools where your students attend.  If you can’t find an organized effort at your school, then take it upon yourself to go and walk around the buildings asking for God’s favor and blessing on this new school year.

Prayer is an amazing and powerful experience. It will not only energize those who take part but it will also send a message to a Holy God that as Christians we desire the presence and anointing of God to bless our schools, staff, and students. Mark the date, Sunday, August 21 at 5 p.m.

On another note, Valley Grande Baptist Church is wrapping up registration for their Fall Upward Soccer Program. The late registration fee is now $55.  Evaluations will take place this week at the church. If you have interested children, ages 4 through sixth grade, they can sign up and be evaluated on this coming Tuesday or Thursday from 5 until 7 p.m.  Practices will begin on August 29 with the first games scheduled for Saturday, September 17.  For more information, please call Valley Grande Baptist Church at 874-6657.

Thank you for your prayers this summer. With surgeries in June and July my recovery time is going slow. I am excited about the months ahead.

This is a great time to get your family back into church, and work at making your relationship with Jesus Christ a top priority. With God in control, my life and your life can be “Simply Beautiful.”