Backpack Blessings and More

You can feel the excitement in the air—it’s Back-to-School time! We hold all our families in prayer as they settle into new routines, meet new teachers, and form new friendships.

Backpack and Car Keys Blessing & Kids Faith Formation Kickoff – August 24

Our new season of Kids at the Core Faith Formation begins Sunday, August 24, with our annual Blessing of the Backpacks and Car Keys at the 10:30 a.m. service. Children are invited to place their backpacks at the Baptismal Font and join the joyful procession behind the cross to their classrooms. When they return to the service at The Peace, children will be asked to bring their bags forward and youth will be asked to bring their car keys to the Altar steps for a special blessing. Each will receive a “Be Kind” tag—a simple reminder of the work God calls us to and a theme that connects with Creation Keepers, our new program at St. John’s Cathedral.

Creation Keepers Inaugural Summer Program

This summer, our Children’s Ministry welcomed children ages 4–12 from across Jacksonville churches for a week of learning about God’s creation and how we can care for the world around us. The week was so meaningful—and so much fun—that we’re keeping the momentum going! Beginning this fall, every third Sunday in Flex Café will feature a Creation Keepers theme and craft, with special field trips planned throughout the year.

Equipping Our Community – September 6 Training

At the heart of Kids at the Core is helping every child grow in God’s love, at their own pace, in an environment where they feel safe and cherished. To strengthen this mission, St. John’s Cathedral is hosting a free training on Saturday, September 6, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., led by professionals from Hope & Healing Jax. This workshop will equip all ministry volunteers, parents, grandparents, and caregivers with practical tools to better understand behavior as a form of communication and to respond with compassion and effectiveness. REGISTER HERE – continental breakfast is included!

Together Again Sunday – September 7

Mark your calendars for Together Again Sunday! This joyful celebration of community after the summer break is also The Cathedral School Sunday. We’ll welcome members of The Cathedral School staff, along with a few of the 3- and 4-year-olds and their families, to the 10:30 a.m. service. The children have been practicing a special song all summer to share with us in worship. Following the

Service, families can enjoy fellowship with a bouncy house, face painting, cornhole, and life-size Jenga!

~Felicia Bullock, Director of Children and Families Ministry and Chaplain to The Cathedral School