November 15, 2011 > World religions join for Thanksgiving World religions join for Thanksgiving Submitted By Tri-City Interfaith Council The 50th annual Tri-City Interfaith Council Thanksgiving Service will take place Monday, November 21 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church. This year's theme is "To build a better world: Give thanks, then share!" Since 1962 when three Protestant Christian churches gathered for Thanksgiving worship, this holiday service has evolved to reflect dramatic changes in the religious diversity of the Bay Area. In 1965, Vatican II encouraged dialogue between Catholics, Protestants, and Jews. Then in the late 1980s, representatives from the Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist, Baha'i, Unificationist, Unitarian Universalist, Mormon, Sikh, Jain, Zoroastrian, and Ohlone Indian communities joined to share in the Thanksgiving Service. The liturgical fabric of the program is rich in readings from sacred prayers, as well as chants, songs, beautiful traditional costumes, dancers and musicians. Participants will be welcomed by local mayors. Those who attend are invited to bring refreshments for a time of fellowship following the service. Canned goods will be collected and an offering will be received for Tri-City Volunteers, a well-known local service organization. Parents are encouraged to bring children and youth to this inspiring and educational program. The Thanksgiving service provides a unique opportunity to become acquainted with the varied cultural and religious traditions of our community. Tri-City Interfaith Council Thanksgiving Service Monday, November 21 7:30 p.m. St. Joseph Catholic Church 43148 Mission Blvd. (near Washington), Fremont (510) 656-2364