A Cross-Cultural Thanksgiving

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.