Interfaith Thanksgiving Dinner at LDS Church
The 2025 Interfaith Thanksgiving Dinner, themed “Feast of Sharing and Gratitude: Building Communities Together,” was held on November 15, 2025, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Los Altos. BAYCC, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, SiVIC, and Pacifica Institute jointly organized the event. A total of 250 participants attended from diverse faith communities, civic groups, and families across the Bay Area.
Volunteers arrived before the event to prepare the space by setting up chairs and tables, arranging decorations, and organizing the welcome desk. They also assisted with audio-visual setup, prepared the meal table, carved the turkey, and later helped with cleanup. Many volunteers additionally brought food prepared at home, contributing to the shared meal.
As guests arrived, background music and a piano performance by Ipek Ozoprak helped create a welcoming atmosphere. The program opened with remarks from Paul Hepworth and Esma Sultan Altun, who introduced the evening and its theme. Three speakers then addressed the audience: Congressman Sam Liccardo, Santa Clara City Councilmember Karen Hardy, and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Scott J. Hellman, each offering reflections on community building, interfaith cooperation, and supporting one another.
A presentation titled “12 Months By the Bay” was delivered by Anita Siu and Fatih Cansizoglu. It highlighted a year-long project in which Muslim and Jewish families celebrated sacred days, visited cultural and historical places, traveled together, and built friendships through shared experiences. This portion of the program demonstrated a practical example of community bonding.
The Thanksgiving turkey was then brought forward, and three blessings were offered by Tina Teng-Henson, Jessica Blitchok, and Yusuf Ozgen. Dinner, including roasted turkey, was enjoyed with live piano music by Jackie Ricks, followed by brief reflections from Garth Pickett and Ibrahim Okuyucu. A musical performance by Joseph and Sarah Cloward preceded closing remarks from Eric Bettinger and a closing prayer from Rev. Pastor Dave Samelson, bringing the evening to a thoughtful close.
With participation from more than 20 organizations and faith communities, and strong support from volunteers throughout the event, the dinner fostered connection, hospitality, and goodwill. Guests departed with a sense of togetherness and appreciation. The gathering served as a meaningful celebration of gratitude and community.
