This year’s Portage Community Thanksgiving Service invites us to gather in gratitude and community on Sunday, November 23, at 5:00 PM at the Unitarian Universalist Community Church of Southwest Michigan, 10441 Shaver Road in Portage.

This annual interdenominational celebration is a time to reflect on the blessings that sustain us—our community, our faith, the earth, and the resilient spirit that carries us forward. The service will include music, readings, and reflections from local clergy: Rev. Mak Kneebone, Rev. Mike Wood, Revs. Janet and Jerry Duggins, Rev. Dr. April Gutierrez, and Rev. Gy Ludvig McCartney, with music from Luke Kritzman and a special anthem by the Community Choir.

Our community offering will support El Concilio, whose mission is to empower Latinx residents of Southwest Michigan to provide for their families, celebrate their cultural heritage, and contribute positively to our shared community.

After the service, everyone is warmly invited to stay for our traditional Pie Potluck Supper—there’s always plenty for everyone!

If you are unable to join us in person, you can watch the service via Zoom.  Visit tinyurl.com/WeGatherinGratitude2025 to register. 

This service is hosted by We Gather, a coalition of Portage congregations—Chapel Hill Church, Portage United Church of Christ, Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Unitarian Universalist Community Church of Southwest Michigan, and Westminster Presbyterian Church—who work together to build bridges of justice, love, and shared purpose.

Come lift your spirit, share your gratitude, and connect with neighbors in this meaningful community celebration.