In autumn of 1621 the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians had the first Thanksgiving meal. In autumn of 2008, Calvary Chapel Montebello opened the doors to have our first Thanksgiving meal with the community and the bounty was plentiful!

On Wednesday, November 26th, over 1,800 visitors from the surrounding area came onto the church campus and were warmly welcomed by a crew of greeters and hostesses ready to guide them to one of the many stations distributing free items.

The first stop was a hot, traditional Thanksgiving meal with all the fixings! 82 turkeys, 75 hams, 90 pounds of mashed potatoes, 180 cans of corn, 165 cans of green beans, 1,800 bread rolls, and 20 pounds of butter later, 1,600 meals were served by smiling volunteers from CCM. In addition to a hot meal, guests were invited to partake in a desert buffet of endless proportions.

In light of our current economic status, CCM aimed to meet not just a spiritual need, but a physical need as well. Putting James 2:15-16 into action, our guests could obtain winter coats, clothing, and blankets, a food box, and a home hygiene care kit. Many families were able to express their gratitude, but Carina Zepeda, 22 year-old single mother of two, stood in tears and simply said, “I don’t know what to say. Thank you isn’t enough.”

In perfect ending to the evening, we worshipped with new faces and fellowshipped with old friends as the evening commenced in music and bible study by Pastor Pancho. Twelve people accepted the Lord as their personal Savior and we welcomed them with joyous celebration into our family!

Below is a personal note from Pastor Pancho to all those who served in our event:

To My Beloved CCM Members,

The book of James is doing a number on me, man! It’s like I’m emotionally tweaked and God is softening my heart—giving me a deeper love—towards the congregation here. I love this church, our staff, and yes, even this building.

I wanted to take the time to personally thank you for your support (financially, spiritually, and emotionally) in our Thanksgiving outreach. I knew God was going to do a work and bring the people who needed to be here, but I was blown away by the support by YOU! Some cooked turkeys, others gave money; some stood at doorways and greeted, others stood behind walls and prayed fervently for our guests; some set chairs, others tore down emotional barriers; but together we were able to share the love of Christ in non-traditional ways.

I’m proud to be the pastor of this church. I’m honored to have been bestowed leadership of this church. I’m humbled by God’s grace. Thank you to the staff (who I love and cherish), the congregation, and the companies who donated to help us put on such a successful event!

His and yours,

Panch