The First Thanksgiving Meal was Where?

On September 8, 1565, a fleet of Spanish ships arrived off the coast of Florida, marking a significant historical event that coincided with the feast of Our Lady’s Nativity. A prominent landmark, a 208-foot steel cross, now stands at this location to commemorate where the first permanent cross was planted in the United States. Pedro Menéndez de Avilés led the expedition, which met with a peaceful reception from the local Native Americans, particularly the chief of the Seloy village from the Timucua people. Fr. Francisco Lopez de Mendoza Grajales, a Franciscan chaplain, arrived with the fleet and was the first to come ashore, carrying a cross. Upon landing, Menéndez de Avilés encountered Fr. Lopez, kneeling and kissing the cross as a sign of reverence.

Fr. Lopez celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving for their safe voyage, which the local natives attended along with the Spanish newcomers. The celebration culminated in a celebratory meal afterward.

The site of this historic landing, St. Augustine, Florida, is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States. It was named after the feast of St. Augustine, which is celebrated on August 28th. Additionally, the parish established in St. Augustine is recognized as the oldest Catholic parish in the country.

The term “Eucharist” translates to “thanksgiving,” highlighting the significance of the first Thanksgiving in America, which was fundamentally rooted in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.