Letter From the Pastor
Daniel 2:21 God is the one who changes times and seasons.
Light in the Darkness: The Traditions Behind Halloween
Summary: Halloween’s origins can be traced to ancient traditions that celebrate the connection between light and darkness, and life and death.
What we know as Halloween is a distinctly American holiday that developed over time, shaped by several cultural traditions that merged into what we celebrate today. The origin of Halloween can be traced back to a mix of ancient festivals, including Samhain, Día de los Muertos, and All Hallows' Eve.
Samhain
Samhain (pronounced Sow-in) is an ancient Celtic festival marking the transition from fall to winter. Celebrated around 2,000 years ago in Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and parts of France, Samhain marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter—a time associated with death. The Celts believed the soul lived on after death, and that on October 31st, the boundary between the living and the dead grew thin, allowing spirits to pass through. During this time, people built bonfires, wore costumes, and left offerings of food for the visiting spirits. In England and Ireland, a tradition called "souling" later developed, where people would go door to door offering prayers for the dead in exchange for food. This custom laid the groundwork for what we now know as trick-or-treating, with costumes originally worn to ward off unwanted spirits.
Día de los Muertos
In a similar way, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in Mesoamerican cultures celebrates a time when the veil between the living and the spirit world is thin. Celebrated on November 1 and 2, families honor deceased loved ones by creating ofrendas (altars) adorned with marigolds, photos, and the deceased's favorite foods. This tradition, unique to Latin American cultures, invites the spirits of loved ones back for a joyful reunion. Celebrants often paint their faces as skulls in remembrance and celebration of those who have passed, honoring life, death, and the continuing bond with family.
All Saints’ Day
In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as All Saints' Day, a time to honor all saints, known and unknown, including everyday Christians who faithfully followed Christ. October 31 became known as "All Hallows' Eve," or the night before All Saints' Day, setting the stage for the tradition of Halloween. Observances included prayers, vigils, and preparations to honor the saints. This evening was a time of reflection on life and death, celebrating those who had passed into the presence of God.
Halloween
As various cultural traditions blended in America, October 31 took on a distinct flavor, mixing elements from Samhain, Día de los Muertos, and All Hallows' Eve. Today, Halloween is marked by costumes, trick-or-treating, and a celebration of the season's shift. As you enjoy the festivities, remember the deeper traditions that shaped this holiday—a celebration of life, remembrance of loved ones, and the transition of seasons. Above all, let the light within us shine, knowing that God’s light dispels all darkness.
Be the light,
Pastor Anny+
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