The first Thanksgiving took place in 1621 when Pilgrims and Wampanoag families gathered for three days to give thanks to God for a successful harvest, a tradition rooted in the Pilgrims’ belief that days of fasting and thanksgiving were sacred times to acknowledge His providence. Edward Winslow’s famous letter preserves the details of this celebration, describing feasting, friendship, and gratitude to God for providing more than they needed. Over time, Thanksgiving grew into a national observance—first proclaimed by George Washington in 1789 and later established as an annual holiday by Abraham Lincoln, who called the nation to offer “Thanksgiving and Praise” to God. Today we continue that legacy as we gather with loved ones, express gratitude for our blessings, and remember that thankfulness draws us closer to the Lord, a message that still insp ...