The camps I’ve attended in recent years have all served meals in a buffet style. This is probably more efficient and sanitary than the family style serving we used at Lutherdale, but I miss the opportunity for corporate prayer at the beginning and end of the meals. Giving thanks was an important part of meals at camp. No one ate until we had asked God’s blessing and no one was dismissed until after we gave thanks.
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I hope you’ll enjoy the lyrics to the songs of thanks we used. If I were more tech-savvy, I might have uploaded an audio track so you could hear the music, as well. I apologize for that. The first three lyrics were used before and after meals respectively. Beyond that, I’ve included some other table graces that we used occasionally. Maybe you’ll recognize one and use it for your Thanksgiving celebration.
Before the Meal: Be present at our table, Lord. Be here and everywhere adored. These mercies bless and grant that we may feast in Paradise with Thee. Amen. (Alternate last line: May feast in fellowship with Thee.)
After the Meal: Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above ye heavenly host. Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen. (Doxology)
OR For life and health and every good we give thee thanks, O Lord. (sung in a round style)
Johnny Appleseed: Oh the Lord’s been good to me, and so I thank the Lord for giving me the things I need–the sun and the rain and the apple seed. The Lord’s been good to me. Amen. Amen. Amen, amen, amen. (A-men!)
My favorite: “Come and dine,” the Master calleth. “Come and dine.” There is plenty at God’s table all the time. He who fed the multitude, turned the water into wine, to the hungry calleth now, “Come and dine.”
And of course, the kids’ favorite: Rub-a-dub, dub. Thanks for the grub. Ya-a-ay, God!
Wishing you a Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving!
