Lord, today I pray for the LGBTQ kids headed back to school.

May each of these children know that you are with them. May they feel your love surrounding them as they go about their days. May they encounter students, teachers, and administrators who will treat them with respect and dignity. May they express themselves without despair or shame.

Lord, let the LGBTQ children learn the curriculum that will help them become more well-rounded adults, but also learn of the kindness and compassion of those with whom they interact.

Help them to encounter more fairness than bigotry,
more courage than fear,
more love than hate.

In the halls,
let them feel protected.

In their classes,
let them feel understood.

In their activities,
let them feel accepted.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayers.

Amen.