This is the next in a series of “Give thanks!” moments offered by ELCA missionaries and sponsors. Learn more about Operation Thanks-Giving at http://www.elca.org/handinhand–Pr. Twila Schock.

Kevin Jacobson (Suriname) writes: “My first Thanksgiving in Suriname was in 2008. The United States Ambassador invited all employees of the US Embassy, Peace Corps offices and other Americans to her home for a Thanksgiving feast.  She, with much assistance from others, cooked a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. It was a blessing to spend the day in her beautiful home along the Suriname River with 200 other people.  With the temperature soaring to nearly 100 degrees, the Ambassador’s pool offered its own refreshment. 

The Ambassador asked me if I would be willing to give grace before the meal. Knowing that the group gathering were people of many faiths and traditions I chose to read Chief Seattle’s prayer. Since that day I have been asked by people of many faiths who were in attendance to lead an opening prayer for various occasions around the city. I give thanks to all wonderful past leaders like Chief Seattle who through their vision and wisdom continue to open the doors for those of us and future generations.

I also give thanks to Any Inkt, the 18 year old son of the caretaker of Martin Luther Church in the center of Paramaribo, for driving me around the city and the streets so that I could learn how to safely navigate them. ”

The Rev. Kevin Jacobson (left) is an ELCA missionary serving in Suriname.  He works in parish ministry and leadership development. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Suriname has four congregations and about 4,000 members. With historical ties to the Netherlands, the people of this country in the northern part of South America speak Dutch.