The Opportunity to Give Thanks

Expressing love and gratitude can truly change your heart and your mind. The outward expression of this inward appreciation can be a change agent within your ministry and the community you serve.

While gratitude isn't seasonal, there's something to be said for uniting with others while the atmosphere is ripe with thanks.

Here are eight ideas to spark your creativity so you can do just that!

  1. Organize community service events, such as meal distributions or food drives. This not only provides and cares for those in need but also unites volunteers in a shared mission of service.

  2. Everyone wants to feel like they matter and that what they do in service of others makes a difference. Thanksgiving cards can be the personal touch that conveys appreciation to members, volunteers, and community leaders for their invaluable contributions.

  3. Who doesn't want to be surrounded by others who are expressing love and gratitude for their creator, for one another, and for those they serve? Hosting a special Thanksgiving worship service can give your team space to share testimonies and personal reflections.

  4. Create a gratitude wall that allows individuals to publicly share their thanks.

  5. Engaging in a GIVE THANKS social media campaign can amplify stories of gratitude, spreading hope to those who read it.

  6. Enlist the help of your artistic members and create a thankful tree, inviting individuals to hang their thoughts on a branch.

  7. Kids on video...what could be sweeter? Gather your ministry kids and produce a 'Kids Give Thanks' video.

  8. Prayer targets or a prayer focus leading up to Thanksgiving can be a great way to build community and unity within your ministry.

We hope that however you choose to celebrate the season of thanks and giving, that your team and your community are blessed!

Lindsey Sryock