Thanksgiving Outreach & New Churches in Zambia

Churches invest significant time in services and outreach during Christmas and Easter—for good reason. Most churches see two of their highest-attended events and worship services during the year around those holidays, according to a Lifeway Research study.

Few pastors offered the Sunday after Thanksgiving as a time when the pews are packed with visitors. But this time of year can offer churches unique opportunities.

Despite not showing up for a weekend service, most Americans will spend at least some time this week contemplating God. A 2020 Lifeway Research study found 67% of U.S. adults say they typically give thanks to God at Thanksgiving. Additionally, 56% say being thankful to God for their blessings is the most important part about Thanksgiving, according to a 2015 Lifeway Research study.

It was the first service as a church and excitement showed on everyone’s faces. They’d been working up to this moment for months with Bible studies, learning to share the gospel and lessons on being a healthy church.

As the opening prayer began, everyone quickly shuffled to their seats — flat rocks excavated from a field and lined up in perfect rows under shade trees. When the praise music started, it would have raised the roof…IF there were one. Finally, the pastor stepped behind the rock podium adorned with a cross made of sticks and opened his Bible.
Kimberly Windham, an International Mission Board missionary serving in Zambia, looked around, and her heart leapt with joy. This was church in its purest form — believers gathered to worship God and learn His truths directly from Scripture. It’s something Kimberly and her husband, Randy, never tire of experiencing.
Southern Baptists, through their prayers and faithful giving, helped the Windhams plant 12 churches in and around Lusaka, Zambia.

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Good News for Today is sponsored by The Voice of the Martyrs
Good News for Today is made possible through our friends at The Voice of the Martyrs, a nonprofit organization that serves persecuted Christians around the world. Founded in 1967 by Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand, VOM is dedicated to inspiring believers to deepen their commitment to Christ and to fulfill His Great Commission — no matter the cost. Find out more and sign up for their free monthly magazine at vom.org/goodnews.
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Thanksgiving Day gives an opportunity to spend time reflecting on the good things and blessings of life. Perspective is key as you examine your life and look to see how the Lord has cared for you and your family over this year.

That’s what happened at the first Thanksgiving as the pilgrims joined with the Native Americans to give thanks to God for the provisions He had supplied to them. They had faced intense hardship, sacrifice and sorrow but they were able to see God’s hand at work as they gave thanks for His care for them.

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