Eco-Justice Team - November 2025
- gstchild
- Oct 30
- 2 min read
Once again, we approach the coming holidays with anticipation and, for some, dread. Joyful celebrations with family and friends can be costly in terms of both personal energy and financial resources. Choosing a more sustainable Thanksgiving can ease both a bit. Here are some ideas:
Plan ahead. This will not only create less stress but probably save money as well.
Use real dishes and flatware. Disposable dishes have no place in a sustainable feast. If you don’t have enough, borrow, possibly from a neighbor or from guests who will be attending.
Use pantry ingredients where possible and make things from scratch. After all, the phrase “easy as pie” arose in the days when all pies were homemade. Try your hand at making bread or rolls, which you can do the day before, if you know you won’t have enough oven space (see #1). There are plenty of recipes available that are no-knead, or rise in the refrigerator, or even are held in the freezer.
Be thoughtful when ordering or buying a turkey. It is possible to find some that are organic or humanely raised. If your gathering is small, try Cornish hens or a roast chicken. Depending on your guests, you may want to try a vegetarian meal. Many suggestions are available for menus.
Use up leftovers! Food waste is a serious problem, and Thanksgiving leftovers offer a wealth of possibilities. Making stock from a turkey carcass will fill your home with marvelous odors for a second day. Many of your leftovers can go into that broth for soup, and don’t forget sandwiches and casseroles. If you send your guests home with leftovers, ask them to bring reusable containers.
Natural materials are perfect for holiday decorations. Pumpkins, gourds, and our ever-present leaves grace your table appropriately. If your day includes children, get small pumpkins and gourdes they can decorate for the table
Share your blessings through donating or volunteering at a food bank.
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate the abundance of God’s earth. A sustainable feast honors that gratitude.
Happy Thanksgiving from the Eco-Justice team!