The Story of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is more than just a feast—it's a celebration rooted in faith, courage, and sacrifice. The Pilgrims' journey and pursuit of religious freedom have shaped American heritage and continue to inspire gratitude.

The Pilgrims, also known as Separatists, broke away from the Church of England, believing it had strayed from biblical teaching. In contrast, the Puritans, or Non-Separatists, sought to reform the church from within. While the Puritans aimed to purify, the Pilgrims chose complete separation, making their journey to the New World a bold stand for freedom of worship.

Fleeing Persecution and Seeking Freedom

Persecuted in England for their independent worship and devotion to the Bible as their final authority, the Pilgrims fled to Leiden, Holland, in 1609. However, challenges persisted, and they realized their dream of true freedom required a journey to the New World.

In 1620, about 120 men, women, and children boarded the Mayflower, enduring a treacherous Atlantic voyage to establish a new life where they could live and worship freely. While some passengers were adventurers seeking financial opportunities, the Pilgrims were primarily driven by their faith.

The Pilgrims arrived in November, too late to plant crops. The harsh winter of 1620-1621 became known as the "starving time," where disease and famine claimed nearly half their group. Despite these hardships, they forged a friendship with Native Americans in the area, particularly Squanto, who proved instrumental in their survival.

Squanto, who had previously learned English, taught the Pilgrims vital skills like planting corn and fishing. With his help, they planted crops in the Spring of 1621 and reaped a modest but life-saving harvest that fall.

The First Thanksgiving: A Celebration of Faith and Friendship

The Pilgrims hosted a feast in the fall of 1621 to honor God's provision. They invited their Native American neighbors, nearly doubling the gathering’s size. Together, they celebrated survival, provision, and friendship—one of the first potluck-style gatherings in America.

By that time, only 22 men, four married women, and 25 children and teenagers from the original group had survived. Their resilience and gratitude set the foundation for the Thanksgiving tradition we celebrate today.