5 Ways Churches Can Share The Love Of Christ This Thanksgiving

A way to meet the needs of others during this holiday is to ensure people have enough to eat. Biblically, the church has a long history of putting their funds together to provide for those in need (see Acts 2:45; 4:32-35; 2 Corinthians 8:13-15). This should include believers who are struggling but also nonbelievers suffering from poverty.  

As a church, we could either collect food to pass out to others personally or team up with a local food pantry that will receive the donated items. These ministries can inform us of their needs and give ideas for foods to buy, including some we might not typically consider. Generally, we should seek to collect food that is nutritious, non-perishable, and has not expired. We can encourage other members to think of what they would appreciate if they could not afford groceries, especially during this time of year when items can be priced higher.  

Many pantries also have special needs, considering their location. For instance, some ministries need items that are more suited for the homeless (items that do not require special preparation), while others serve families (items that feed multiple people). Churches should prayerfully consider these needs when asking members to donate. 

God delights in seeing the hungry filled and the hopeless encouraged (Psalm 107:9). We can partake in this work, giving thanks to our Savior, as we provide food for those who need it the most this Thanksgiving.      

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In many parts of America, cold temperatures will already be present in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving. And the drop in temperatures means there will be a rise in the need for coats, hats, scarves, gloves, blankets, and other winter clothing. This is true for the homeless but also for those living in poverty or impacted by natural disasters.  

Providing clothing for those in need has always been a part of following the Lord. In Isaiah 58:7, the prophet gave God’s instruction about what a true fast looks like – to feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, clothe the naked, and help relatives in need. Jesus also mentioned in the parable of sheep and goats that a sign of true faith is clothing those in need (see Matthew 25:36-40). 

Since believers are thankful for Jesus clothing us in His righteousness, our gratitude should naturally overflow into helping others. When we see those in need of proper clothing, we do not merely wish them well. Rather, our faith compels us to act and provide them with proper clothing (see James 2:15-17).  

All that is required for a church to collect warm clothing items are large boxes or containers and willing volunteers to transport the items to a participating shelter or ministry. Even if the church is small, it can still make a difference. Think of the many people who will experience the love of Christ tangibly if everyone in the church donated at least one or two items to the drive. What better way to show our thankfulness than by meeting the vital needs of others?  

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Not everyone has the money to buy the supplies to make a feast for their family. Those on fixed incomes and who live in poverty worry about how they will afford their groceries each week, let alone buy items for a holiday meal. So many of us can take Thanksgiving dinner for granted, forgetting that others are not as fortunate.  

Churches can step in and offer hope in these situations. Together, as the Body of Christ, we can all pitch in and donate items to help struggling families have the supplies for a Thanksgiving meal.  

To start, we must spread the word to the surrounding community to get in touch with families who are in need. Then, we can start collecting donated holiday food items, but not only non-perishables. Lots of churches have a refrigerator and freezer in which they can store frozen turkeys, chickens, or hams for the families that have signed up. 

Of course, we need to ensure we are not only giving holiday help and then leaving the families in the same situation the rest of the year. We should use these opportunities to make connections with the individuals – to get to know them and their situations. Giving the families food can open doors for sharing the good news about Jesus and for coming alongside them to help address issues with poverty. Perhaps our church is connected with a ministry that serves children and youth, ensuring they will get an education by providing college scholarships. Or a member is associated with an organization that aids those struggling with joblessness. There are many ways we can provide assistance that will make a sustainable, long-term impact.   

Our church can come alongside those who are struggling and show them that Christ cares about them, including their practical and spiritual needs.     

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My mother often commented on the need for someone to host holiday gatherings for those who did not have a family or were unable to meet with relatives. She knew multiple elderly individuals who were lonely during Thanksgiving and often spoke of her vision for transforming a community center into a place where those who were alone could come together for fellowship during the holidays.  

What she envisioned is not impractical or far-fetched. Many churches have fellowship halls or places where people can gather. Even if they do not, a few of the members are likely to have a gift and heart for hosting. Believers could easily work together to hold a Thanksgiving gathering for people who are alone this holiday season – whether because they are elderly, isolated, single, struggle with chronic health issues, or their family lives far away. This can also bless church members who are unable to gather with relatives.  

With all the members coming together to make this gathering happen, there will be no shortage of opportunities to serve. Some can decorate the meeting place, others can gather festive plates and cutlery, and a group of volunteers could cook and bring food. Together, members can host a Thanksgiving dinner that will provide people with delicious food, companionship, and hope.  

Our Lord regularly ate meals with others, in which fellowship was a significant aspect of dining (Mark 2:15; Luke 7:36; 10:38-42). We can follow His example and give of ourselves and time in the name of Christ to show others that we care. We never know what could stem from these gatherings. The individuals we invite could start asking questions about Jesus and wanting to learn more. If anything, they will experience a holiday knowing they are loved by the Lord and are not forgotten. And it is worth the effort to put together a holiday gathering.     

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Although our Thanksgiving holidays are already filled with activities, perhaps this year, our church can encourage members to donate a part of their holiday to serve a meal to those who are homeless or impoverished. Soup kitchens and ministries that feed the poor often have volunteer openings for Thanksgiving. Churches will likely need to sign up early, though, to secure these spots as many people are enthusiastic about volunteering during this season focused on gratitude. 

Groups from the church should ensure that they arrive on time at the ministry or soup kitchen and observe the rules and practices of the organization. Beforehand, leaders of the group should hold a briefing session with the members to discuss what to expect. We should prioritize safety and respect for all involved. As believers, we should remember that the people being fed are not mere ministry projects. These are people we are serving, individuals who have been made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). They have worth and need Jesus’ grace just as much as any of us.  

Serving a warm meal to those who are struggling ensures that a hungry person is fed. But it is also much more. We, as members of the church, are showing up in the places our Savior has called us to be lights in this dark world. We offer a meal and a smile to individuals who others often turn away from or avoid. We give our time and resources to serve others when the world tells us we should only consider our own concerns and problems. We are showing people what it means to know, follow, and love Christ – and to share His love with others.     

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Sophia Bricker is a writer. Her mission is to help others grow in their relationship with Jesus through thoughtful articles, devotionals, and stories. She completed a BA and MA in Christian ministry, which included extensive study of the Bible and theology, and an MFA in creative writing. You can follow her blog about her story, faith, and creativity at The Cross, a Pen, and a Page.