On Thanksgiving Eve, Trinity Lutheran Church, 2701 24th St., will open its doors to its communion partner congregations and the community, to reflect, worships, and build on that tradition of praise and thanksgiving. The service starts at 7 p.m.
“We Americans are suckers for tradition and the November holiday is chock full of it,” a news release from the church notes. “From the Macy’s parade to a day full of football on the tube to turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and all the fixin’s on the dinner table, there’s always a lot you can depend on when Thanksgiving rolls around.    Beyond eating yourself into a food coma and passing out in front of the TV, Thanksgiving is a day for ... well, giving thanks.”
On Thanksgiving day, millions of Americans from every religious and cultural background come together with family and friends to give thanks for the blessings of life. The Rev. Jim Stasen invites people to start their celebrations and reflection on what they are thankful for one day early.
People are also invited to bring offerings of money and/or canned goods, which will be given to the Food Bank of Great Bend.
Music will be provided by Trinity’s Joyful Praise Ringers Bell Choir and the Chancel Choir. The Rev. Strasen, as host pastor, will preside over the Eucharist.  The Rev. Jeff Slater from Trinity United Methodist Church will be the guest preacher sharing the message of thanksgiving.
The Barton County Association of Churches is comprised of area congregations. The association meets five times a year to share information among the churches and to plan BCAC events: the annual soup supper in October raises money for the Barton County Emergency Aid Association, Unity Service in June, Lenton Luncheons, Widows Mite during Lent and scholarship in May for a high school student.