Giving Thanks with Faith: A Catholic Girl’s Guide to Thanksgiving

Dear Friends,

As the giant balloons float down the streets of New York, Thanksgiving marks the start of the holiday season. Whether you’re cozied up watching the parade with a warm cup of coffee or bustling in the kitchen preparing the turkey, this day is about more than floats and feasts—it’s an opportunity to pause and reflect on the blessings that fill our lives.

Thanksgiving can be much more than a secular holiday, but as Catholics it can be a chance to meditate on how gratitude shapes our faith. The Eucharist, which comes from the Greek word eucharistia(meaning “thanksgiving”), is central to our lives. In this sacrament, we offer thanks for Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on the Cross and partake in Holy Communion as an expression of unity with Him. As you prepare to gather around the Thanksgiving table, consider sharing a prayer as a family to acknowledge the One who provides all we have.

As the Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us, “Every event and need can become an offering of thanksgiving”(CCC 2638). This truth challenges us to cultivate gratitude even in difficult moments. I know this isn’t always easy. Negative feelings about classes, work, or even relationships can overshadow the blessings God has placed in our lives.

Personally, I’ve struggled to maintain a grateful heart in the busyness of life—especially during stressful times like the end of a semester. This past Lent I made a commitment to write a letter of gratitude to someone in my life every day. This simple act shifted my perspective and helped me see the people in my life as gifts. It reminded me that gratitude isn’t just a fleeting feeling but a practice—something we can work on every day.

This Thanksgiving, let’s reflect on how we can embrace gratitude not just today but in our daily lives. Here are some practical ways to nurture a thankful heart:

1. Keep a Gratitude Journal
   Write down three things you’re thankful for each day. They can be as small as a warm cup of tea or as profound as a deep conversation with a loved one.
2. Write Gratitude Cards
   Take time to write letters, notes, or even text messages to people you’re thankful for. Sharing your gratitude not only lifts others up but also deepens your own sense of appreciation.
3. Pray the Examen
   St. Ignatius of Loyola’s Examen prayer includes a moment of gratitude. Reflect on your day, recognize God’s presence, and thank Him for the ways He worked in your life.
4. Serve Others
   True gratitude inspires action. Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, donating to a food bank, or simply reaching out to someone in need, serving others allows us to share the love and blessings we’ve received.

When we live with a spirit of gratitude, we radiate God’s light to the world. Gratitude brings joy, and it can be a powerful witness to the beauty of our faith. This Thanksgiving, let’s strive to be that light—showing others the peace that comes from a thankful heart.

How do you and your family celebrate Thanksgiving? Do you have traditions that incorporate faith and gratitude? I’d love to hear about them in the comments—your stories inspire me and remind me of the beautiful ways we can live out our Catholic faith.

Wishing you and your family a Thanksgiving filled with love and the peace of Christ.

With Love and Prayers,

A Grateful Catholic Girl

AKA Jillian

Sources:

Catholic Answers Staff. “Eucharist.” Catholic Answers. Accessed November 28, 2024. https://www.catholic.com/tract/eucharist.

United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. “Catechism of the Catholic Church, Paragraph 2638.” USCCB.org. Accessed November 28, 2024. https://www.usccb.org/sites/default/files/flipbooks/catechism/636/.