Altoona church hosts blessing of the backpacks for students

ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) — It’s almost time for kids to go back to school, but before they do, an Altoona church gave some of them a blessing.

On Sunday, The Well of Blair County , located at 605 Burns Avenue, held a blessing of the backpacks and a special time of prayer for students, teachers, faculty, staff, and administration.

Elementary-aged students were invited to bring along their backpacks for the church service which started at 10:30 a.m.

“Children are an amazing resource and it’s really a gift of God. So we want to take some special time before going back to school so the kids know that we love them and that God loves them. And so for parents, too, so they can know they’re starting out in the right foot, send their kids off to school for a new year,” John Godissart, Pastor of the church said.

Another backpack blessing was held at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday. The Well of Blair County also previously held prayer walks at some area schools.

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Pastor Godissart said they will continue to support students throughout the school year with Picnic’s in the Park where they bless the children with a meal.

The church is also looking to hire a Children’s Coordinator so they can have even more things for kids in the community.

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