Join us the day before school starts to show our support for our students, teachers, staff and parents. We are walking to three local schools and offering a blessing at each one:
"To pronounce a blessing on something is to see it from the divine perspective. To pronounce a blessing is to participate in God's own initiative. To pronounce a blessing is to share God's own audacity."
(Barbara Brown Taylor)
"Walk For Schools" Sunday Schedule
08:45 AM - Meet At Arapaho United Methodist Church for Doughnuts and Coffee
09:00 AM - Begin Walk
09:30 AM - Arrive at Arapaho Classical Magnet for Prayer/Liturgy
09:50 AM - Arrive at West Junior High for Prayer/Liturgy
10:10 AM - Arrive at Richardson High School for Prayer/Liturgy
10:45 AM - Arrive at Arapaho United Methodist Church for Water & Snacks
11:00 AM - Worship Service (includes Blessing Of The Backpacks)
FAQ about Walk to Schools
What time and where?
We'll gather at 9 am in our sanctuary and start our walk shortly thereafter. We've given ourselves plenty of time between stops. We'll arrive at Arapaho Classical Magnet at 9:30 am, West Junior at 9:50 am, and Richardson High School at 10:10 am.
What if I am not able to walk that day?
You are welcome to stay in the cool of the sanctuary and join us via livestream for the event. If you feel like you can walk the route to Richardson High School (our end destination) but not back, there will be shuttle rides available from Richardson High. You are also welcome to take your car and join us for prayer at our three stopping points (Arapaho Classical Magnet, West Junior High, and Richardson High School).
What should I wear and / or bring?
Wear clothes and shoes you are comfortable walking in and that are good for the hot Dallas weather. Our worship service at 11am is--as always--come as you are! Bring a bottle of water,
Why are we walking to these three schools and not others?
Very practically: they make a nice loop that we can easily walk! Also, they stand as representatives of each of our age-level schools (Arapaho Magnet = Elementary Schools, West Junior High = Junior Highs, Richardson High = High Schools).
Will this be a Christian-based prayer liturgy or will people of other faiths feel welcome?
The liturgy aims to be inclusive, so that people of all faith traditions will feel comfortable. The big idea that is we are gathering as a community to send light and love towards these communities and connect with the divine presence at each one, offering our words and visual presence of support.
Will my Sunday School class do this or will we still meet?
Whatever your class decides. Some classes may choose to still have class, while others may choose to participate in Walk for Schools. We encourage parents to bring their children along to walk the route if they are able; childcare will be available back at the church.
Can I invite my friends?
Please do! All are welcome!