Thanksgiving

In 1982, Jackie Geoffrion (mother of Mary Jane Kittredge, wife of Pastor Doug Kittredge), responded to a calling to reach out to those in the community at Thanksgiving. On that day on Kenmore Avenue, meals were prepared and the volunteers anxiously awaited the arrival of those in need. After what seemed like an impossibly long wait, one man was eventually convinced to come in and enjoy the feast.

With so much food prepared, a new approach was necessary. Some meals were boxed up and sent to the dialysis unit in Hazel Hill where Mary Jane’s sister Pat Hall and another New Life in Christ Church member, Mary Lou Zook, worked. What a blessing! This still left an abundance of food, however. It was decided that the volunteers would go door to door in the neighborhoods and offer meals to any in need. Many were served in that first Thanksgiving Day Ministry and their stories are still remembered today. Nearly 4 decades later, this ministry continues to seek people out to share a Thanksgiving meal and to invite all who are seeking a church home to come and worship with us each Sunday.

Over the years, the New Life in Christ Church Thanksgiving Day Ministry has grown. Last year, over 500 meals were prepared and delivered from the New Life in Christ Church kitchen. Many of these meals find their way to the tables of our neighbors in local assisted living facilities. Many more find their way to the tables of our neighbors in the community.

Today, as we prepare for our 35th Thanksgiving Day Ministry event, many things have changed over the years. The name of the One that gives us the most cause to be thankful remains the same. We hope that this ministry will be a blessing to you and your families.