Trick or treat and all that - a Christian comment on Hallowe'en

As responsible members of our communities we all want the best for those in our care, especially for our children and grandchildren. When we see pressures on them to conform to society’s ways it is right that we consider the ethical and moral issues and be ready to support, guide and advise. Some issues are clear cut, others not so. There are in my opinion some aspects of Hallowe’en that are seriously unhelpful and potentially harmful to them. 

It should never be dismissed as “just a bit of fun”; it’s not. The unhealthy interest in ghouls and ghosts can lead to nightmares and an interest in the occult. It can make some young people feel vulnerable and afraid of the dark. The presentation of evil as “a bit of fun” is contrary to Christian teaching, which regards the dark side as very real. This is the thin end of the wedge in my view and a way for evil forces to gain a foothold in young lives and in society.  Apart from that there are now increasing numbers of people of all ages who find the evening, waiting for a knock at the door, really intimidating even frightening, and they feel obliged to buy treats for children who call. It could also be potentially dangerous for children to call on strangers too.

Historically of course Hallowe’en (from All Hallows’ Eve) derives from a Pagan festival, on which people really feared the dead may visit them and they tried to scare them away or appease them with food and offerings. The church then held All Saints’ Day as a positive celebration of all that the saints had achieved in their good lives and the held a time for positive reflection about our loved ones who have died (All Souls’ Day). I know which I prefer!

I think we, the Christian Churches, should proactively speak out against the modern practices of Hallowe’en and discourage any youngsters we know from taking part. There are posters, which you can display to tell callers not to knock, available from the Police and on-line. There are also Christian leaflets available in many churches to give out wherever you feel it is right – please use them unapologetically. It’s not being kill-joys; I believe it is a genuine concern about the unhealthy interest in unconventional spiritual matters when Christ offers real hope for this dark world. Many churches also offer an alternative party with a positive message about The Light of the World.

Kevin Wright