Hyderabad: Churches have turned active with Thanksgiving celebrations, with the faithful participating in events that began in the first week of November and will conclude in the coming week. Thanksgiving is observed as a special day dedicated to thanking God for His providence. The faithful bring gifts in kind or other forms to offer at the church.
At the Centenary Methodist Church on Chapel Road, both churches have been decorated with fruits, flowers, and vegetables. Mary Jyothsna, a member of the church, mentioned, "We decorate the church and altar, giving a theme of nature using all natural products."
Senior church member Susana John explained, "People get confused with the Thanksgiving of the West. This one is totally different. We take part in praise and worship; pastors recall in their sermons about God's grace on humans. People come and offer their best at the altar; this is each one's commitment."
Church members arranged food stalls in the open area, preparing and selling delicacies, The earnings are donated to the church. Offerings included chicken Arabian mandi, chicken snacks, pooran poli, tilkka paw, club sandwich, cakes, and some members sold handicrafts.
Rev. P. Amar Kumar said, "The women spend a whole day in preparation, putting in their hard work. The members who buy them have a chance to taste the best food; they buy with joy."
K. Yesu Das, secretary of the church, mentioned, "Several services in five different languages took place. Members enthusiastically took part, and the Bishop who attended the events also preached in the afternoon service."
At Millennium Methodist Church on SD Road in Secunderabad, a day-long Thanksgiving celebration took place. According to committee member David Norfolk, "The church had full attendance."
At SPG Church in Secunderabad, the congregation took part in various activities. Godfred Dominic, a member of the church, said, "The members are involved in organising the activities. As soon as the Thanksgiving is done, the Advent season takes place."
