Dear Great Rivers Congregations,

As we gather again to celebrate Thanksgiving, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and joy for our blessings. As you know, this year has had no shortage of drama, division, and declarations.

I imagine you are like me in being thankful to God for the churches we attend together as the family of God right here in our region. Even though we may have differences along the way on various issues, one thing stands strong to unite our hearts together, and that is the cross of Jesus Christ!

Thanksgiving is far more than a wonderful meal, football, or even a brief (or long) prayer of appreciation before the meal. For the believer, it is primarily a time to be thankful for what Christ did for us over 2,000 years ago. We need to also be thankful for what He does for us now and for the fact that He is coming again to receive us for all of eternity!

Please take a moment this Thanksgiving to count your blessings and reach out to those in need. You may be collecting food for baskets to give away or your congregation may even be hosting a Thanksgiving meal. Current statistics show that more people are eating alone these days and it is not by choice.  People need and are missing community. By extending the love and grace we have received to others, we fulfill the teachings of our faith.

May this Thanksgiving be a time of unity, love, and joy for our congregation and extended families. I pray that our faith continues to grow, our bonds strengthen, and our hearts remain open to the beauty of the world around us.

With a heart full of gratitude, I wish you all a blessed and joyous Thanksgiving.

In His Service,

Rev. Patty King Bilyeu

Executive Minister