Friendsgiving
Every year since moving to our current home in Arlington, Texas we have hosted a Friendsgiving Feast. What started as a gathering of friends who are connected through a Cathedral of Hope United Church of Christ life group has expanded to include others.
The first year, 20222, 15 folks gathered for a potluck style meal. To begin, we gathered in a circle so each person could share words of thanks or gratitude for the year passed then I offered a modified version of a Thanksgiving prayer written by Diana Butler Bass. The remainder of the evening was unscripted, but primarily experienced around table (technically two tables).
The group grew a little in year two. Since it was becoming a tradition, I blogged about the experience.
In year three the event nearly doubled in size requiring a few additional tables.
And, it grew yet again in 2025.
After more than four decades of life without Friendsgiving, in just four short years this celebration has become a beloved annual tradition.
Thanksgiving
For many years my sister has hosted a Thanksgiving dinner that brings together her family of origin with her husband’s. My wife and I have attended on numerous occasions including the last two years.
We also enjoyed the day together at home during the pandemic.
And have made the day into an adventure by attending a Dallas Cowboys game at AT&T Stadium.
This year we will be our first to celebrate Thanksgiving in Oklahoma.
So What?
My Christian faith calls me to live a life of thankfulness and gratitude all year long while the American culture invites me to be especially attentive to this each November. Friendsgiving and Thanksgiving are two ways I choose thanks each year – one primarily with friends and one primarily with family.
Happy Thanksgiving!
and
Happy Friendsgiving!
I’d welcome hearing some of your Friendsgiving, Thanksgiving, and November thankfulness traditions.