In the midst of several calamities recently hitting the Southland, congregations of all faiths still retain their trust in God. No doubt the Thousand Oaks killing of 12 people, the massive destruction by fire of homes and businesses and the ongoing violence gripping many communities has led to suffering and sadness, yet belief and dedication to the Almighty hasn’t wavered and has led many churches and ministries to host Thanksgiving services and events to express their gratefulness to the Lord.
The following lists some of the faith-based Thanksgiving activities occurring in the area that are open to the public.
Brookins-Kirkland AME Church, 3719 W. Slauson Ave., in Los Angeles, plans a one-hour Thanksgiving Day Worship on Thursday, Nov. 22, at 9 a.m., said Pastor Mary S. Minor. The service will include a sermon by Pastor Swayne Cofield of Rose of Sharon AME Church. For information, call (323) 296-5610.
Church On The Way, 14300 Sherman Way in Van Nuys, will sponsor a Thanksgiving Service on Thursday Nov. 22, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. To learn more, call (818) 779-8000 or visit thechurchontheway.org.
Faithful Central Bible Church, 321 N. Eucalyptus Ave., in Inglewood will hold Thanksgiving Day Worship on Thursday, Nov. 22, at 9 a.m., said Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer, pastor. For details, call (310) 330-8000.
First United Methodist Church, 304 E. Spruce Ave., in Inglewood, host Thanksgiving Worship on Thursday, Nov. 22, at 10 a.m. Pastor James Stevenson, Sr. of Scott United Methodist Church in Pasadena will preach. The service is sponsored by the California-Pacific Conference Black Methodists for Church Renewal where Latanya Cunningham serves as chairperson.
Grace United Methodist Church, 4112 W. Slauson Ave., in Los Angeles, will distribute 500 meals to people living on skid row in downtown L.A. on Friday, Nov. 23, said Pastor Cedric D. Bridgeforth. To donate food items or volunteer for the event, call the church office at (323) 294-6653.
Love, Peace and Happiness Family Christian Church, 4951 S. Figueroa St., in Los Angeles, will hold an hour of power Thanksgiving Day Celebration on Thursday, Nov. 22, at 11 a.m., said Bishop Leon and Dr. Jacqueline Martin. Praise songs, testimonies and message by Bishop Martin will be presented. Also, a bottle of anointed oil will be distributed to each attendee. For information, call (800) 757-6552.
West Angeles Church of God in Christ hosts a Thanksgiving Community Dinner to bless those less fortunate on Tuesday, Nov. 20, at its North Campus sanctuary, 3045 S. Crenshaw Blvd., in Los Angeles, said Bishop Charles E. Blake, Sr., COGIC presiding prelate and pastor. At 11 a.m., a worship service takes place followed by dinner in the Crystal Room. To volunteer or donate non-perishable items, call (323) 733-8300, ext. 1789. Thanksgiving Day Service will be held at 10 a.m.
