This year as we celebrate the Jubilee of the World of Education from 31 October to 2 November, we also celebrate World Teachers’ Day in Australia on 31 October.
World Teachers’ Day was first proclaimed by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) in 1994, although the movement began in 1996. Its aim is to promote quality education and to show respect for the contribution of teachers and their work in the improvement of children’s lives.
As we know, Mary MacKillop’s and Julian Tenison Woods’ dream was to open up opportunities through education for children to express their potential for a better life and to break free of the cycle of poverty. The transformative power of a good education through the dedication of teachers can change families for generations.
This article features a prayer of gratitude and blessing for all those who continue to transform lives and bring hope for a more fulfilling future.
God of Understanding,
You created us to be happy and live life to the full.
We give thanks for all those teachers in our lives,
in school and outside of school,
who have enriched us and helped us grow into our potential.
We pray through Jesus who cherished the children.
Amen.
Set an example of good works, by sincerity and earnestness, when you are teaching, and by a message sound and irreproachable so that any opponent will be at a loss with no accusation to make against us. (Titus 2:6-8)
The vocation of teaching comes from a deep desire to make a positive difference through education.
The search for knowledge and love of learning and understanding is a lifetime journey.
Let us give thanks for the many and different teachers who have sparked this quest within each of us.
For teachers who inspire us to try and creatively think through solutions.
We give thanks.
For sport coaches and teachers of music, dance, drama and art who have believed in us.
We give thanks.
For family members who have taught us how to do the simple things well and with kindness.
We give thanks.
For teachers who have challenged us to never give up and to be resilient.
We give thanks.
For teachers who may have never taught us in a classroom but have taught us life lessons that will stay with us.
We give thanks.
For friends, neighbours and role models who have taught us how to change adversity into opportunities.
We give thanks.
For those who have been a mentor and listening ear for us.
We give thanks.
Let us take a quiet moment to give thanks in our heart for a teacher who has been a blessing to us.
Let us pray … (pause) …
God of all goodness,
You guide and teach us through wisdom people and meaningful encounters.
Help us to always be grateful for the teachers who have generously shared their skills, knowledge and gifts with us.
We pray through Jesus who teaches us the way to you.
Amen.
Teaching is not always easy. The challenges can at times seem overwhelming. Let us pray for blessings of courage, strength and grace for all teachers, especially those who have not been respected and fairly treated.
May God bless us all,
+In the name of the Father,
and of the Son,
and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Jeanette Foxe rsj