NATCHEZ — Local residents will join together today to give thanks for another year.

The Natchez Ministerial Alliance is hosting a community Thanksgiving service at 6:30 p.m. today at Crosspoint Church on Highland Boulevard.

Alliance President the Rev. Scott Green of First Assembly of God said the non-denominational service is geared toward encouraging unity and fellowship among the various denominations of the Christian faith.

“We are trying to break down barriers between the different denominations because we all worship the same God,” Green said. “We also want to break down racial barriers by bringing together white and black churches.”

The annual community Thanksgiving service is a reminder, Green said, that there is much for which to be thankful.

“Here in America, we have so much to be thankful for,” he said. “We have a lot of people who have plenty and a lot of people who are in need. This is our opportunity to give thanks to God for the many blessings God has given to us and an opportunity to give back to those who are less fortunate.”

An offering taken at the service will go toward the Natchez Stewpot’s efforts to feed the hungry, Green said.

Natchez High School Principal Tony Fields will be the speaker at the service. Worship will be led by Jessie Green of Lafayette, La., a recent graduate of Crossroads Leadership College, and a team of worship students.

The service is open to everyone, Green said, and refreshments will be served after the service.

“We just encourage everyone to come out join us and fellowship with us and get to know other Christians in the community,” Green said.