Download HomeNews - November 2023

Recently, I read an article on the “Top 10 Thanksgiving Traditions.” Most of the items on the list will not surprise you. Number one is watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Others include eating a traditional Thanksgiving meal, watching football games, and taking a nap at some time during the football games. Another one of the top 10 traditions is putting up the Christmas tree and decorating the house for Christmas. Of course, for some brave souls, there is the tradition of shopping on Black Friday. Hopefully, you and your family have fond memories of your Thanksgiving Day traditions.

At the Children’s Home we have several Thanksgiving traditions. We have a special worship service in the chapel the Tuesday before Thanksgiving where we thank God for His many blessings. After the worship service we share a meal together. Some of the cottages start working on their large outdoor Christmas cards that weekend.

One of our best Thanksgiving traditions is making a Thanksgiving list. This year I asked all the cottages to make their Thanksgiving lists early so I could share them with you. Several of our children said, “I’m thankful to have all the food I need.” A special thanks goes to those of you who helped our children through the Fall Food Roundup this year. Another child said, “I’m thankful for my new bike without training wheels.” One of our girls said, “I’m thankful to have my own room.” An older child said, “I’m thankful that I can wake up every day and not worry about things anymore.” One of our boys said, “I’m thankful to get to go to church and make new friends.”

Our HomePlace mothers, also, have Thanksgiving lists. One mother said, “I’m thankful to have a support system of people who believe in me.” Another mom said, “I am very grateful God led us here because my kids are happy, healthy, and safe. One mother was thankful to have a place of healing. Another expressed her thanks for Christian mentors who are helping her grow.

Those lists all have one thing in common – You. Every day, because of your generous gifts, we are able to provide children and families in need with a wonderful Christian home that is filled with God’s love. The children have new clothes, school supplies, opportunities for music, sports, and more. Our moms can earn a high school diploma, receive job skills training and professional Christian counseling. Best of all, you help us introduce all of them to Jesus. You are at the top of our Thanksgiving list.

I pray that you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving. As you celebrate God’s goodness in your family, know that we are celebrating His goodness in our family, and the blessings that you have provided through your generous support. May the Lord bless you as you have blessed our children and families at your Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home.