Giving Thanks

In both peace and struggle, God’s faithfulness remains our constant guide. Let this season be a time to reflect on His goodness, celebrate His provision, and express our heartfelt thankfulness. Together, may we rejoice in His love and share the spirit of gratitude with one another and our community.

Upcoming Events

 We invite you to join us in gratitude and connection this Thanksgiving season. Our upcoming events offer opportunities to gather for worship, enjoy time with family and friends, and give back to those in need. Explore the events and ways to get involved!
November 24 & 27

Bridge Communities Thanksgiving Collection

Each Thanksgiving, we invite our congregation to help stock the supply closet at Bridge Communities, which provides housing assistance and mentorship to homeless and low-income families working toward a brighter future. 
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Many of these families, often led by single mothers, have faced challenges such as violence, abuse, and poverty. Join us as we come together to bless them with essential personal care items—supplies that are not typically covered by WIC/SNAP benefits.

Please bring any of the specific items listed below to worship on Sunday, Nov 24, or to Thanksgiving Eve service on Wednesday, Nov 27.

  • Laundry Detergent — Pods are preferred. Any brand or size. 
  • Dishwashing Tablets — Any brand or size. 
  • Toothpaste — Any brand or size. 
  • Paper Towels — 6-12 pack is ideal. Any brand.
  • Toilet Paper — 4-6 pack is ideal. Any brand.
  • Cleaning Products — Any brand or size.
Wednesday, November 27

Thanksgiving Eve Service

Join us for our unofficial kickoff of the Advent season with our special Thanksgiving Eve service at 6pm, followed by our annual “Pie Thing” at 7pm!
Pie Thing is Looking for Volunteers!
This annual tradition is made possible by those who set up and those who bring pie! If you’d like to be part of it, sign up below.
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Think of this as our “family reunion”—a time to come together as one church family, welcoming students home from college and celebrating in community.

At the Pie Thing, you’ll be treated to a delicious variety of pies… and that’s it! Just stay after church, relax, and enjoy some pie. What could be better?

  • Service: 6:00pm
  • Pie Thing: 7:00pm
  • Good Shepherd Church — 1310 Shepherd Dr, Naperville

A Prayer for Thanksgiving

In every season of life—through joy and challenge, certainty and doubt—this prayer reminds us of God’s steadfast love and faithfulness. As we gather in gratitude, may these words anchor our hearts and lift our spirits in trust and thanksgiving.
God, You are faithful and good.

As we look back and as we look forward;
God, You are faithful and good.

In our joys and in our sorrows;
God, You are faithful and good.

When we are sure and when we are unsteady;
God, You are faithful and good.

When we are rested and when we are stretched;
God, You are faithful and good.

In all, and through all, and for all;
God, You are faithful and good.

Conversation Starters at the Thanksgiving Table

Whether you’re reflecting on life’s smallest blessings or celebrating the biggest moments, these questions invite everyone to share stories of thankfulness, connection, and faith. Let this time be a chance to honor the ways God has blessed each of us and to deepen our gratitude for one another.

"I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart. I will tell of all Your wonderful deeds."
Psalm 9:1
Share three things that happened this year for which you want to thank God.

Share one thing about the way God made you for which you are most grateful.

Share the name of one person you would like to thank for their influence on your life.

Share one characteristic about God that you appreciate the most, and why.

Share one thing that you really appreciate about someone at the table.

Share three days in your life for which you are most grateful.
Share the smallest thing you are thankful for in your life.

Share the biggest thing you are thankful for in your life.

Share a place for which you are most thankful for this year.

Share one thing you learned this year for which you are most thankful.

Share one decision you made this year for which you are most thankful.

Thanksgiving Fun for Kids!

Keep little hands and minds busy this Thanksgiving with this downloadable activity sheet, packed with games, puzzles, and fun challenges! From word scrambles and searches to mazes and counting, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while celebrating the season of gratitude. Download, print, and let the Thanksgiving fun begin!