Preacher David's Corner

A Thanksgiving to Remember in the Ashe Baptist Association
 Set in the Heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains

The air is crisp and scented with woodsmoke and fallen leaves. It is in November in Ashe County, North Carolina, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The rolling hills blazed with color—fiery reds, deep oranges, and golden yellows—a masterpiece painted by God’s own hand. It is Thanksgiving season, and across the 44 churches of the Ashe Baptist Association, a spirit of gratitude echoes through the valleys.

Each church, whether perched on a ridge or tucked in a quiet holler, prepare for their annual Thanksgiving Services. These are not just ordinary Sunday gatherings; they are special moments of worship, testimony, and fellowship—an offering of thanks to the Lord for His unwavering faithfulness through the seasons.

Some folks bring homemade quilts and jars of apple butter to be given to the elderly and shut-ins. The sanctuary is with warmth, both in spirit and in temperature. Pastors stands before the congregation with tears in his eyes as he read Psalm 100 aloud: "Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise..." The choir sings “Come Ye Thankful People, Come,” their voices blending in harmony with the rustling of leaves outside.

Down the road at another church, children practice a short Thanksgiving play. They dress as pilgrims and Native Americans, not for historical accuracy, but as a joyful symbol of coming together in gratitude. Afterward, the congregation enjoyed a potluck supper—sweet potato casseroles, cornbread dressing, green beans, ham, and at least a dozen kinds of pie. Laughter filled the fellowship hall as families tell stories, give thanks to God, and share memories.

Meanwhile our churches located high in the mountains with its panoramic mountain view, can have an outdoor service. As the golden morning sun breaks over the Blue Ridge peaks, the congregation stands bundled in coats and blankets, giving thanks for the year’s blessings—health, family, harvest, and the peace only Christ can bring. A young couple, having just welcomed their first child, shared how their church family have supported them with meals, prayers, and love. “We’re not just members,” they said. “We’re family.”

As night falls, the stars above the Blue Ridge Mountains twinkled like a choir of heavenly lights. From Lansing to West Jefferson, from Todd to Crumpler, 44 churches stand as beacons of faith, rooted in tradition, glowing with gratitude. And though each congregation has their own ways of celebrating, our hearts are united in one common prayer to God: "Thank You, Lord, for Your blessings on us.

                                                               Your Servant, David