For appreciating others
We thank you, Father, for the gift of Jesus your Son who came to our Earth and lived in a simple home. We have a greater appreciation of the value and dignity of the human family because he loved and was loved within its shelter. Bless us this day; may we grow in love for each other in our family and so give thanks to you who are the maker of all human families and our abiding peace.
— from The Catholic Prayer Book, compiled by Msgr. Michael Buckley
To remember those less fortunate
Help Me Thanksgiving Day Prayer
O God, when I have food, help me to remember the hungry;
When I have work, help me to remember the jobless;
When I have a home, help me to remember those who have no home at all;
When I am without pain, help me to remember those who suffer,
And remembering, help me to destroy my complacency;
bestir my compassion, and be concerned enough to help;
By word and deed, those who cry out for what we take for granted.
Amen.
— Samuel F. Pugh
To acknowledge God’s gifts
Countless Blessings
Lord, on this special day of thankfulness,
we thank you not only for the delicious food,
lovingly prepared and presented,
but also for special gifts
you’ve given to this family —
loved ones we cherish dearly,
a comfortable place to live,
the beauty that surrounds us,
material pleasures,
health, spiritual wealth,
and so much more.
How can we show our gratitude for
the countless blessings you’ve provided?
We thank you for giving us clear direction,
through your holy word
on how to show our appreciation,
by obeying Your commands
and by loving and serving our neighbors.
Thank you, Lord.
— Joanna Fuchs
To look toward another bountiful year
Another Good Year
We thank you, Lord, for food and friends
And for all of the joy this holiday lends;
It’s Thanksgiving Day and we can see
The blessings you’ve provided our family.
Thanks to you, Lord, for another good year;
When you watch over us, there’s nothing to fear.
— Karl Fuchs
To say a quick, encompassing thanks
Thanksgiving Prayer
For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food,
For love and friends,
For everything thy goodness sends.
— Ralph Waldo Emerson
