It is rich in traditions passed down from generation to generation, often centering around a meal that includes turkey, potatoes, cranberries (whether canned or whole), and pumpkin pie.   

It has also become one of the busiest holidays of the year. Between travel by air, train, and car, celebrating with family and again for the new practice of “friendsgiving,” and the Black Friday sales that now span from a week before to the week after, many experience a very different Thanksgiving than the one we grew up with. 

The increased visiting isn’t a bad thing – spending time with those we love whether it is family or friends keeps us grounded in gratitude for our connections to each other and strengthens important relationships.  

But the commercialism that now surrounds what was once a very simple holiday, takes us very far from the reality of what the Pilgrims experienced and why the celebration even came to be. We all know the story… the group that settled at Plymouth experienced incredible hardship. With very little manufactured goods, they made a meal out of what they gathered. 

Our one day to celebrate Thanksgiving used to be tied to many days of “thanksgiving” - days of prayer to thank God for his blessings. Those gratitude gatherings were often tied to the end of droughts, food shortages, and more.  

It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of everyday life, but when we take a moment to appreciate all that we have, we can shift our perspective.

 As a community, we’ve experienced the challenges of hurricane season together, and there’s a unique strength in being there for one another during difficult times. Whether it's sharing meals, offering support, or simply being present, our bonds become even more important. Thanksgiving reminds us not just to be grateful for the comforts we enjoy, but also for the people we share them with—and for the resilience we find when we come together. 

This week, Bishop Parkes shared 12 things he is grateful for. Focusing in on our blessings – and there are so many! - is an incredible practice to bring back the true spirit of Thanksgiving.  

Other popular practices include: 

• giving back through service at a not for profit 
• making a donation to a not for profit 
• creating a “thankful” piece of art to serve as the centerpiece at the Thanksgiving meal 
• asking each person joining the meal to bring a dish in honor of the Pilgrims who made their meal out of what they had available 
• sharing stories about our loved ones who are no longer with us with the next generation as delicious desserts are sampled 

And of course, prayer. Starting the day with prayer, attending Mass, and praying over the meal together ensures the day begins, continues, and ends in celebration of God’s blessings.