As information surfaces, increasing our knowledge on some historical practices, there are those who want to discard any manner of association with an event we recognize as Halloween. Yet, there are also a number who see no reason for concern, recognizing it as a time of frivolity and treats for the kids. This differing of opinion is not a recent phenomenon in our generation, but an ongoing tension that has continued for centuries.

We have come to accept many of our beliefs and practices as defined by culture, unknowingly either making or rejecting them as part of our lives. The case in point, Halloween, has been seen from two perspectives: those who see it as a time for candy treats for kids while others see it as a “satanic” event. Neither response is accurate in the truest sense of the word because neither has addressed what “Halloween” really is.

What is Halloween?

The early church had several feasts at which they would honor the saints. One of these feasts was called All Saints’ Day 1. In this way they would “commemorate all the saints of the church, both known and unknown” 2. All Saints’ Day came to be known as All Hallows Day, and the evening before as All Hallows Eve; a holy or hallowed evening celebrated on October 31. All Saints’ Day Eve later became recognized as Hallowe’en, then Halloween in recent years. Halloween historically is a time of remembering and praying for the dead saints.

The church played a larger role in culture historically, changing and developing in and with society. The influence of the culture also played a major part in what the church adapted as regular practices. Even today you see churches attempting to be culturally relevant in order to reach people with their message.