Have your own DIY Friendsgiving.
Open your table, share a meal, build community.
This Thanksgiving season, we're inviting everyone in our church to host a simple Friendsgiving meal with neighbors, coworkers, friends, classmates, or anyone who could use connection and community.
You don't need a large house, a perfect meal, or hosting experience. Just open your table and invite people into your life.
Open your table, share a meal, build community.
"… practice hospitality" - Romans 12:13
Here’s how you can do it!
Step 1: Pray
Ask God who you should invite.
Consider:
Neighbors
Coworkers
School friends
Sports teammates
Single adults
New families in the community
People who don't have local family nearby
Step 2: Pick a Date
Choose a day that works for you:
The week before Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving weekend
The weekend after Thanksgiving
Keep it simple.
Step 3: Invite People
Personally invite 3-10 people.
You can invite through:
Text message
Phone call
Social media
Face-to-face conversation
Use our invitations (grab them in the lobby)
Step 4: Keep It Simple
You don’t need to do everything yourself.
Ideas:
Potluck Style -
Ask everyone to bring one dish.
Dessert Night -
Serve pie, coffee, and conversations.
Traditional Thanksgiving Meal -
If you enjoy cooking, go for it.
Remember: People will remember how welcomed they felt more than what they ate.
Step 5: Create Meaningful Conversation
Here are a few simple questions:
What is something you've learned this year?
What was a highlight from the past year?
What are you hoping for in the coming year?
Step 6: Share Gratitude
At some point during the gathering:
Thank everyone for coming.
Go around the table and share one thing you're thankful for.
Encourage guests to stay connected beyond the event.
FAQ
-
That's okay. A kitchen table, apartment, backyard, or park can work great.
-
Make it a potluck or serve simple food.
-
No. This is primarily about building relationships and showing hospitality.
-
Start with a few people. Even 3-5 guests can make a meaningful gathering.
-
Take the risk anyway. Hospitality begins with an invitation.