The first day of school is about more than students’ end of summer break and their return to the daily grind of homework and quizzes. It’s also a day for women across the Richmond region to gather for midmorning prayer as their children return to school. Betsy Akins, founder of the prayer movement First Day, said, “To me, it sends a message to our children and our communities and schools, that we care enough to come together to pray.“

Jews celebrate Passover. Christians celebrate Easter. The two faiths and traditions recite ancient texts—or modern texts from ancient roots. They are reminded of the events and beliefs that have made them what they are and of the ideals that define what they want to be. By re-enacting ceremonies, families reform. A seder is a wonderful meal, made nourishing by the loving-kindness it expresses. A non-Jew attending a Passover feast feels at home, most likely because the table embraces him as one. Affection enfolds. Next year in Jerusalem is today.

The Senate Courts of Justice committee yesterday voted down a bill that would have allowed sectarian prayer at government meetings and events. Senate Bill 1072, sponsored by Sen. Stephen H. Martin, R-Chesterfield, was formulated in response to a decision last year by Virginia State Police, based on a federal court ruling, to instruct police chaplains to deliver only nonsectarian prayers at public events.

Citing Scriptures and Thomas Jefferson, the House of Delegates voted yesterday to approve legislation that would allow state police chaplains to invoke the name of Jesus Christ at state police events.

Del. Charles W. Carrico Sr., R-Grayson, said he is preparing a bill that would prohibit the superintendent of the Virginia State Police from ordering chaplains to deliver nondenominational prayers.

The Ekoji Buddhist Sangha community plans to hold an ecumenical service on Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. at the temple at 3411 Grove Ave. to commemorate Buddha’s attainment of enlightenment.