Even with the Heartland Community School playground under construction, the annual “Prayer at the Playground” took place last Thursday, the first day of school. About 27 folks gathered there to offer prayers and support for the upcoming school year.
This year, it was led by Pastor Rick Bartek from the Stockham Community Church, who handed out a prayer guide and guided the group in getting started. Dot Quiring handed out a declarative prayer she had written called “Our School Decree,” which the group gathered read out loud together.
Our School Decree
We assert the Lordship and dominion of Jesus Christ over our school of HEARTLAND COMMUNITY SCHOOLS in Henderson, Nebraska, and over the people who gather here. In Jesus’ name, if there are any influences of Satan and the unseen powers of darkness attempting to infiltrate this school, we bind and forbid them from affecting anyone and from interfering with God’s purpose here. In Jesus’ name, we command you to go where Jesus tells you and to be subject to His will. We claim God’s sovereign protection here and the fulfillment of God’s plans in the lives of those gathered here. Lord Jesus, we invite Your Holy Presence to fill the school. We decree that the border that encircles this school will hold the design that God Almighty intended from the beginning of time. Jesus, you are Lord of all, and we give you dominion in our lives and in this place. In the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior, we pray. Amen.
Here are the 12 prayer items that were prayed over by the 27 who broke into small groups to offer their prayers for the upcoming school year.
1. For wisdom, discernment, and integrity for our local school board, NE State Board of Education, and federal officials.
2. For teachers (new and returning), support staff, administration, bus drivers, lunch staff, janitorial staff, and coaches: Jeremy Klein – Superintendent, Tim Carr – Secondary Principal, Dana Reinke – Elementary Principal
3. Protection from violence: “Peace, I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” John 14:27
4. For the students who know Christ to shine in example, stand firm in their faith, and share the hope they have: “Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.” I Timothy 4:12
5. Positive relationships between staff, students and parents.
6. Widom and patience to meet each child’s individual needs” “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt.” James 1:5 & 6
7. Safety and sportsmanship in sports
8. Safety in travel to and from school and extracurricular events.
9. For families as they support their children in school.
10. Balance and prioritization in our homes, work, and school.
11. Discernment and wisdom in teaching sensitive material.
12. That our school would be filled with the joy and the good news of the gospel.
If you are interested in participating in a weekly prayer group for all kids in any type of school, here is the information:
Moms in Prayer: All moms and grandmas are invited to be a part of the Henderson Moms in Prayer. We pray for the Henderson Public Schools PreK-young adult as well as homeschool families. Time: Wednesday mornings, 8:15-9:15 a.m. Location: Meet at the Lake Park Shelter (wear walking shoes). Each week, we focus on an attribute of God. God reminds us of who He is and gives us the boldness to pray for our students, schools, and families, trusting Him with the outcomes. If you have any questions, talk with Joanne Haidle or Sarah Goertzen.
