There was a very good article about Halloween in Evangelical Fellowship of Canada’s magazine, ‘Faith Today,’ back in their September/October 2009 issue. I couldn’t find it online, otherwise I’d share the link here. It was written by Sheila Wray Gregoire. In this article she points out three different ways that Christians respond to Halloween:
1. Ignore It – she points out that some families decide that Halloween’s evil roots are too great to allow them to participate in any way at all.
2. Transform It – by creating alternate opportunities for kids to have fun.
3. Engage It (with purpose)
I’m not ‘advocating’ for participation in Halloween, but I do believe it can be a great opportunity to build bridges to people I live near, without engaging in anything related to that which is evil.
A few times over the last several years, on Halloween, I’ve simply set up a table at the end of my driveway, and as kids approach with their parents, I say, “Hot chocolate is for the parents, and kids get your candy at the door.” This little gesture has given me the opportunity to meet many people in my neighbourhood that I might not otherwise have met. It’s also just plain fun to do and helps to create a more positive atmosphere. So, as October 3 approaches, here is some food for thought for Halloween:
Halloween is certainly a day when occultists are active, but God has always been about redeeming what the enemy intends for harm. So, for those whose conscience allows them, I believe it’s possible to use this evening as a redemptive opportunity to shows God’s love and grace to others in their community.
Whatever you decide about Halloween, to not participate, or to participate in appropriate ways, remember not to judge your fellow Christians in the other ‘camp.’ In the midst of what you decide, be sure to be praying for people in our community to see the light of Jesus and to open their hearts and lives to Him.