When we think of Thanksgiving, we often picture turkey dinners, football games, and parades. While those traditions are fun and festive, did you know Thanksgiving can also be a deeply Catholic holiday? In fact, the first recorded Thanksgivings in America were Catholic celebrations centered on gratitude to God through the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.
The Real First Thanksgiving
Long before the Pilgrims shared their famous meal in Massachusetts, two important Thanksgivings took place in what is now the United States. Both were Catholic celebrations, focused on giving thanks to God for His blessings.
The first happened in 1541, when Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado and his expedition were traveling through what we now call Texas. After a successful buffalo hunt, the group paused near Palo Duro Canyon to give thanks. Father Juan de Padilla, a Catholic priest traveling with them, led a Mass in the open air. It was a simple but profound moment, where the Eucharist—the ultimate act of thanksgiving—was offered. Afterward, the group shared a meal of buffalo meat, dried fruit, and other provisions.
Years later, in 1565, another group of Spanish settlers led by Pedro Menéndez de Avilés landed in St. Augustine, Florida. After arriving safely, they held a Thanksgiving Mass to thank God for protecting them during their journey. Following the Mass, they shared a meal with the local Timucua people. This feast included salted pork, beans, and bread—a simple but meaningful celebration of faith and friendship.
These events remind us of the deeper meaning of thanksgiving in the Catholic faith. At the Last Supper, Jesus Himself instituted the first Mass. The Gospel of Luke tells us, “And when He had taken some bread and given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is My body, which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.’” Every Catholic Mass follows this example, offering the Eucharist as the greatest act of thanksgiving to God.
This year, you can reclaim Thanksgiving as a true feast day in your liturgical living by infusing it with faith and intentionality. Here are 6 simple ways to make it a Catholic Thanksgiving:
Make Thanksgiving Catholic
1. Begin the Day with Mass
Since the Eucharist is the ultimate act of thanksgiving, why not start Thanksgiving Day by attending Mass? Bring the whole family and offer your gratitude for the blessings God has given you this year.
2. Decorate with Gratitude
Turn your home into a reminder of God’s providence. Our exclusive “Bless Us O Lord” art print is perfect for Thanksgiving. Featuring harvest-themed watercolor art and the classic grace before meals prayer, it beautifully combines faith and festivity. Display it in your dining room to remind everyone of the true reason we give thanks.
3. Pray a Litany of Gratitude
Before the meal, gather as a family and pray a Litany of Gratitude. Have each family member share something they’re thankful for, then respond together, “We thank You, Lord.” This simple practice turns your Thanksgiving table into a moment of shared faith and love.
4. Celebrate Martinmas
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, honor St. Martin of Tours by celebrating Martinmas (November 11th). This feast, which focuses on sharing and generosity, connects beautifully to the themes of gratitude and giving. You could enjoy a meal of roasted goose (or chicken!), make lantern crafts with your children, and discuss the importance of sharing with those in need, just as St. Martin shared his cloak.
5. Learn About the First Catholic Thanksgivings
Teach your children about the real first Thanksgivings in Texas and Florida. Talk about how the Eucharist is at the heart of giving thanks and share how Catholics have celebrated gratitude for centuries. Our Thanksgiving printable activity pack has everything you need to make this learning fun and engaging for your kids!
6. Serve Others
Honor God by serving others on Thanksgiving. Whether it’s donating food, inviting someone who’s alone to your meal, or praying for those in need, this act of charity embodies Christ’s love and reminds us to share our blessings with others.
Bring Faith to Your Feast
Thanksgiving is America’s feasting day, but it can also be a liturgical living feast day when we bring our Catholic faith into the celebration. Make it a holiday of true gratitude this year with our exclusive “Bless Us O Lord” art print and and let your home radiate the joy of giving thanks to God.
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Let’s reclaim Thanksgiving as a Catholic feast day and give thanks to the Lord for His goodness and blessings!
