Hundreds of people packed St. Theresa's Cathedral yesterday in honour of Thanksgiving Day in the US, amid prayers, songs and words of appreciation.

The American Society of Bermuda helped to organise the annual service which saw religious leaders from other denominations come together under one roof.

Premier Dr. Ewart Brown, Opposition Leader Michael Dunkley and Government Ministers and business leaders came together for the service.

US Consul General Gregory Slayton read out a proclamation from President George W. Bush and Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

"Americans and all of our friends worldwide are grateful for today," the proclamation included.

"We're ever mindful of all of the ways we have been blessed... since the first national day of thanksgiving was proclaimed by President George Washington Americans have come together to offer thanks for our many blessings."

Those in attendance were treated to a performance by the Mount Saint Agnes junior choir. The service's 11th annual Tom Pettit Thanksgiving Essay winner, Bermuda High School pupil Courtney Woodings, read her essay.

Part of it stated: "Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me. Let there be peace on earth, the peace that was meant to be.

"With God as our Father, brothers all are we, let me walk with my brother, in perfect harmony.

"Let peace begin with me; let this be the moment now. With every step I take, let this be my solemn vow."

An offering was held to benefit the Meals On Wheels charity and 'De boys Day-Out Club'.