When we think about holidays, many of our thoughts run to
family and traditions. However, it is interesting to think that the first
‘holiday’ we think of that was celebrated in the New World was actually a
cross-cultural holiday. Thanksgiving brought people from two different
cultures, languages and ‘worlds’ together to enjoy fellowship around a meal.
This November, we got a small taste of this at the second annual Thanksgiving
Potluck for international students hosted by Park Cities Presbyterian Church
(PCPC).
Every international student that I spoke to after the dinner
expressed how grateful they were for the opportunity to share in an American
tradition. Moreover, they were blown away at how welcomed and well-received
they felt by their new American friends.
The evening led to many great stories of students and church
members connecting and building relationships. One of those encouraging stories
from the evening was the way the young adult community at PCPC interacted with
the students. After having a great time getting to know the students at dinner,
our young adults invited them to their Friendsgiving party down the street for
hot chocolate and a bonfire. We heard back from students and young adults alike
that it was a great time! I hope that we continue to learn together how to
invite others into our communities and the ordinary spaces of our lives – be it
international students, neighbors or co-workers. What an incredible opportunity
for the nonbeliever to witness the community of the Body of Christ.
