I've been praying, researching and thinking about what I want this post to say.
About how I want this post to be received.
It's a post that I knew I wanted to write.
It's an issue that I'm passionate about.
It's a day that challenges me.
My parents became Christians when I was in elementary school and from that point on we no longer participated in Halloween activities.
Overtime, especially now as a mom, my feelings towards this holiday have only been confirmed.
I know I'm in the minority.
I know this is not a popular stance.
I know I might offend.
But I want to share what's on my heart
and explain why we've made this decision.
Overtime, especially now as a mom, my feelings towards this holiday have only been confirmed.
I know I'm in the minority.
I know this is not a popular stance.
I know I might offend.
But I want to share what's on my heart
and explain why we've made this decision.
I had originally planned and hoped that I could just find another blog post about this issue that would perfectly execute, better than I could, why we, as a Christian family, don't participate Halloween.
I did find one article that I felt shared what's on my heart and what I believe and I will quote a few lines at the end.
But much to my surprise {I'm still in shock} there wasn't much out there.
How could this be??
How is this holiday accepted by so many Christians?
I won't go on and on about the origin of this holiday
{but if you don't know it, I'd encourage you to read it}.
{but if you don't know it, I'd encourage you to read it}.
Instead I just want to state the facts.
The facts that feed my strong conviction to not participate.
Halloween was created to not only celebrate the coming of winter, but celebrate and commune with the dead - it is a holiday filled with spirits, superstitions and fear.
Jack-o-laterns were intended to scare off evil spirits.
Costumes were worn to divert ghosts.
Treats were left out to calm unwelcome spirits.
I realize that due to the commercialization of the holiday, the origin and traditions tend to be forgotten and pushed to the side.
Treats were left out to calm unwelcome spirits.
I realize that due to the commercialization of the holiday, the origin and traditions tend to be forgotten and pushed to the side.
I get it.
But as much as I've heard it said that it's just about cute costumes and candy, I can't ignore the fact that many still celebrate as the holiday was intended.
But as much as I've heard it said that it's just about cute costumes and candy, I can't ignore the fact that many still celebrate as the holiday was intended.
Halloween is an opportunity, and one of the main days, for some to embrace the dark side of the spiritual world.
As much as we may not like it to be, even with one search on google, this darkness is seen.
A drive down our street, darkness is seen.
A trip to the party store, darkness is seen.
A family day at the pumpkin patch, darkness is seen.
Last week on our weekend away, we went to a pumpkin patch.
Adalyn was walking behind me and I turned to hold her hand and I saw her look up in the tree and then look at me with a look of fear in her eyes.
I looked in the tree and what do I see?
I just don't see why, as a Christian, I want anything to do with a holiday that celebrates that.
It broke my heart when I saw Adalyn's face after seeing that.
And I know it was only a glimpse into our future of all the other things of this evil world that I wish I could hide her from that I can't.
When I look at this.
When I look at the reality of Halloween.
When I look at how Halloween is typically celebrated- even with its origin and the rituals of witchcraft aside- I ask myself, is this a holiday that brings honor to God?
Is it glorifying God?
Here are some other facts.
Halloween celebrates darkness, evil and death.
I celebrate the God who gives life.
*Now he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for all live to him.” (Luke 20:38)
*The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. (John 10:10)
What the holiday represents is detestable to the Lord.
And do not let your people practice fortune-telling, or use sorcery, or interpret omens, or engage in witchcraft, 11 or cast spells, or function as mediums or psychics, or call forth the spirits of the dead. 12 Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord. (Deut. 18:10-12)
I am called to abstain from the appearance of evil.
Abstain from every form of evil. (1 Thess. 5:22)
I am called to be set apart.
* Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.(Rom 12:2)
*But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. (1 Pet. 2:9)
*Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (2 Cor. 5:17)
*If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. (Col. 3:1)
I am a child of light.
* You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness (1 Thes. 5:5)
*8For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9(for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10and find out what pleases the Lord.11Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. (Eph. 5:8-11)
To me it's clear.
God is of light.
Halloween is of darkness.
Therefore, as a child of light, I want no part in this darkness.
There are some Christians who take a missional approach to participating in Halloween.
My personal belief is that there are other ways to reach the lost on this day without funding or participating in these events.
It all boils down to personal conviction.
Do I think little kids in costumes are cute?
Yes!
But for our family Halloween is the perfect opportunity to teach Adalyn that we are called to be different.
We are called to not be of the world. (1 Jn 2:15)
We are called to be as a city on a hill. (Matthew 5:14-16)
This is a biblical principle that, through this holiday, can easily be instilled at a young age and an opportunity that comes around every year.
I find more value in that than any other Halloween festivity.
She can dress up any day.
She can have candy any day.
But on this day she will learn ways to be bold in her faith.
She will have an opportunity to explain why she doesn't go trick or treating.
Why she's not dressing up as her favorite character.
A day that she will be set apart.
Because she is called to be.
Because she is a child of light.
I know we can't avoid the darkness in this world, but that doesn't mean I am going to
celebrate in this holiday of darkness.
I'm all for alternatives that put the focus on Jesus.
I'm all for celebrating Reformation Day.
I'm all for a special family night.
I'm all for "treating" neighbors or families in need.
For us, we look forward to a fun family night on October 31st.
We go out for dinner and play at a local play place.
Making memories, having fun and praising the Lord that He has overcome evil.
He has conquered death!
I'll finish this post with a quote from one of the articles I read that I feel is spot on.
"Ephesians 5:1 tells us to be imitators of God. Our Lord Jesus would not go to a party to honor the feast of the Samhain. Moses did not come down from Mount Sinai and combine the Israelites Passover holiday with the idol worship that was going on. Allowing children to dress as witches and sorcerers or hanging evil decorations in our windows is imitating that which is evil.
Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, And they shall be My people. Therefore Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you. (2 Corinthians 6:14-17)
The verse says, “come out from among them, says the Lord.” Does that mean come out from among them–but don’t deprive your children from all that fun and candy — celebrate the same pagan ritual in your church building? The Bible is very clear about Christians being involved in such celebrations. "
At the end of the day I think it's important to ask
"Does this holiday honor the Lord?"
I think the answer is pretty clear....absolutely not!
239 comments:
1 – 200 of 239 Newer› Newest»I loved this! You are a wonderful mom and a beautiful example of raising your family to love and honor Jesus. Hope you have a wonderful family night on the 31st!!
Rachel
And you don't know me, I stumbled across your blog a few months ago and got sucked in. Your baby girl is too cute. I have a daughter who is about 6 months younger :)
Rachel again :)
I think Halloween is what you make it. It doesn't have to be about "the dark" or bad spirits or scary stuff. You can make it fun, decorate and dress accordingly. Every little kid wants to dress up as a princess or pirate or their favorite Disney character. Why not let your little girl participate?
I grew up not celebrating Halloween either... I grew up as a missionary kid in Africa, where the spiritual world is much more real and making light of it is just not done. When I walk around our neighborhood and see the scarily decorated houses, it makes me sad. That said, I don't necessarily see any harm in letting my son dress up in a cute/fun outfit (he has a monkey one) and going to church events that specifically celebrate Christ and light and family fun instead of scary/evil things.
I commend you for your thoughtful statements, supported with Scripture.
I`m 56 now, but - when saved at 37 - it was CLEAR to me (after only 2 months in the Word) that Halloween violated Scriptural commands to Believers.
My child was in 1st grade and was also taught why we didn`t ``celebrate`` the occasion. Still, it was very discouraging to see I was in the minority. It is very difficult to train your children on virtuous living, when other Christians around you are living like the rest of the world.
Keep up the good work and thoughtful posts
We don't celebrate it either:)
I so commend you for speaking what's on your heart about this and how God has convicted you and your family on this. very nicely written with such powerful scripture. I agree with the not celebrating the scary/gross/satanic stuff. NEVER will I allow my child to dress up as something of the such. however, as a Christian, I find just as much value in the opportunity to see families that step foot on our church property when we have trunk-or-treating that we never would see without that community event. to me, God said don't be OF this world, but He also said, like you quoted....go and be light. And that often takes being IN the world for brief times. For me, I feel that we can be light even if we participate in our own way in this holiday. it's not about celebrating the evil for my family AT ALL. it's about our own fun, innocent, joy-filled traditions of family dinner, trick or treating, and dressing up cute. What's amazing about this, is you have followed YOUR convictions and for that, YOU are an amazing Momma to Adalyn and exactly the mommy God wants her to have, regardless of this "rib issue" as Beth Moore would put it ;) . I know God will do nothing but bless you with this stance! i appreciate you, friend, and Adalyn is one blessed little gal!
I agree 100%!!!!!!! Wish more people would get the revaluation!! It's an evil celebration! Have never celebrated in 35 year and won't let my kids do it either!
While I respect the decision not to want your daughter to participate, I do believe it is a fantastic opportunity to reach others. Of course there are different ways to do that, but this is just one more opportunity to bring light into something that would have other wise been darkness. We have a big thing at our church every year that has brought so many people to The Lord. When my children were younger, they loved telling the Gospel at this event and meeting new people, some
Of whom are life long friends and believers now! Through darkness, there is light and now many brothers and sisters in Christ that would not have been there without it. I absolutely understand not wanting your child to be involved, but I think it is important to really realize that this day can be turned into a great opportunity to evangelize! Many many holidays have pagen rituals, not simply Halloween. Christmas trees, Easter bunny, Easter egg hunts, even thanksgiving! Each of us are convicted in different ways, and for myself and my family we relish this day to evangelize! When you're using this day , or any day, to bring people to The Lord, it glorifies Him and His kingdom.
I respect the fact that you and your family do not celebrate Halloween. My husband and I are Children's Pastors and we are planning to dress our children up and get some candy. I see nothing wrong with this. We, as Christians are supposed to be a light in the darkness. We are not supposed to avoid the darkness. We should be out there talking to people and taking the time to show God's love to them. When do you get the opportunity to do this otherwise?? Hundreds of kids and families coming to your door on one night. It is an incredible opportunity to love on your community despite what they may believe. We don't hand out hate tracks or anything. We give out GOOD candy and we take the opportunity, if presented to talk about Christ. If it isn't, that's okay too. We also make sure that our children are exposed to what we want them exposed to. They will dress up as a princess, a fireman, and Captain America. We need to show others that we, as Christians, are not stuffy, stuck up people that can't enjoy a little candy and fun once a year. Take the Opportunity!
I wonder about all the people who are using Halloween to spread the light of Christ...do they talk to everyone they can about Christ? Do they evangelize to every child who comes to their door? Perhaps they do like they say. More likely, they look and act just like all the other families trick or treating. Sadly, this could be what is wrong with the church today. Let's conform ourselves to fit into the world view (and not be "stuffy or stuck up") so more people will like us.
When my children were young (they are all in their 20's now)we didn't celebrate Halloween either, and now they all resent me for it, my youngest especially. I know I did what was right, and I stand on the Word, and I would do it all over again the same way. The eternal repercussions are just not worth it. People just don't realize how important even the smallest compromise is in the eyes of your children, and The Lord. Good for you young lady, you keep your light burning bright, don't hide it under a basket.....blessings, Charity
This is JUST AWESOME, thank you!!
Two thumbs up!!!
Same here! I don't do the Hallween, or any other of the pagan holidays :)
Religious reasons aside, I see it as culturally sanctioned extortions. "Trick or treat " translates as "gimme candy or I'll egg your house (etc)" even if the little ones in cute costumes have no intention of doing that.
Oh give me a break....
I respect your choices that you've made for yourself and your family. Respect others' rights to disagree and make different choices. I know that you feel like you've found the universal TRUTH of Halloween, and therefore those that disagree are, in fact, wrong. But at least entertain the notion that other people *might* just be OK doing something different, and that God might be OK with it too.
Yes. This.
Christmas derived from a pagan holiday. Jesus was born in the summer.
I'm sorry, I couldn't help but notice that you took your daughter to Disney World. The place that celebrates Disney movies which involve witchcraft, scary villains, Voodoo, magic, and death. The place that has a giant haunted house. I'm guessing you don't see the disconnect, and that makes me not able to take this article seriously.
Your view of Halloween in this blog post is too black-and-white. Your post would be more credible if you had done some unbiased research into the origins and current common practices of Halloween and incorporated that information into the post. Actually, just do some general research into the origins of different Christian holidays. Many were created around pagan holidays and many pagan holidays were created around the changing of the seasons -- I don't think God would be upset if you observe the changing of the seasons (He created the seasons anyway -- right?).
On another note, all the kids I knew growing up whose parents restrained them from celebrating common holidays and events rebelled more than the average young adult once they hit their teens and early twenties. Sometimes it's not worth it to be so strict; it drives a wedge between parents and children that can carry into adulthood.
I also like what other comments have mentioned about going out and spreading the light will all kinds of people instead of containing it to you and your friends.
And the Wet Blanket Award goes to...
http://www.thinkjarcollective.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/wet-blanket.jpg
Well said!
Very well said
Nancy, I would be very interested to hear how many kids and families you are able to talk to about the Lord as you go trick or treating on Halloween night. How will you be showing your light in the darkness that night? If you are dressed up and showing God's love to them, how will they know it's God's love and not just someone else trick-or-treating or handing out candy? I ask this sincerely, because I feel like people use your argument, but usually do not back it up with actions. But, then maybe I'm just not hearing the rest of the story.
Great response, Nancy! I agree with you.
Thank you so much for sharing this! I have never been fond of Halloween. I am also a new creation in Christ Jesus, and your words were spot on. I'm ashamed that I never thought of writing this post myself, however, I just never took a full on stance against Halloween. I was just never fond of it. This year I will be making new traditions with my family to come out from the rest of the world and celebrate what Christ has done to set us free. Bless you sweet sister in Christ.
It does not honor God. That was already stated. There are other things to do to celebrate the Fall season.
Because my little princess would be walking through yards with ghosts, skeletons, gravestones, blood gore and scary stuff. Right there it shows that she does not belong there.
When our children where young, I had the truth revealed to me as well. With a friend we organised a get together in the church so our kids did not have to hand out candies at the door to other children, either.
We had hotdogs, singsongs to loudly praise the Name of Jesus and...lots of candies there, and enough to take home;) it's not about the candies.
The evil sure is sugar coated here though!!
(There are, however, tracts you can handout at the door about our faith in Jesus which might be a nice alternative..)..but I don't think you can participate "sort of" and pretend the dark side of this issue doesn't matter.
People that say THAT, are just not willing to make a choice!
Our reformationday party exists untill today, the younger people of that congregation took over the innitiative.
A lot more people then you think are willing to give it up, but need some push and support.
I say, away with celebrating evil.
There is nothing funny about it!!
We do not celebrate halloween (note I do not even capitalize it and spellcheck says I am wrong) I feel after all Christ and God has done for us to not turn away from these things and to even try to create a new christian way to celebrate it is a slap in the face of our Creator our Father. Countless times our Father smitted His children for far less. With that being said I will encourage you all to take another look at the history of some other beloved holidays such as easter and christmas. My family and I are just as passionate about knowing the whole Truth(as in from the Bible) about these things..... I do not condemn those that celebrate these in the name of Jesus but once you know your history about them again you should realize taking a pagan thing and making it "clean" is another slap in the face of Christ. Eggs and bunnies = fertility ritual and here is a reference in Jeremiah that is spot on when dealing with christmas. Jeremiah 10:1 Hear ye the word which the LORD speaketh unto you, O house of Israel:
2 Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them.
3 For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe.
4 They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not.
5 They are upright as the palm tree, but speak not: they must needs be borne, because they cannot go. Be not afraid of them; for they cannot do evil, neither also is it in them to do good.
6 Forasmuch as there is none like unto thee, O LORD; thou art great, and thy name is great in might.
7 Who would not fear thee, O King of nations? for to thee doth it appertain: forasmuch as among all the wise men of the nations, and in all their kingdoms, there is none like unto thee.
8 But they are altogether brutish and foolish: the stock is a doctrine of vanities.
9 Silver spread into plates is brought from Tarshish, and gold from Uphaz, the work of the workman, and of the hands of the founder: blue and purple is their clothing: they are all the work of cunning men.
I only wish for a world in which my children can grow and actually know their Creator without having to dig through the lies.
Thank you for this post! Very encouraging to know there are other Christians out there that believe the same way we do.
Thank-you for your excellent post.
I grew up in a Christian home where we were allowed to celebrate hallowe'en. No leadership was shown. It was just dress up, freedom to run around the neighbourhood at night, and candy.
I liked the candy. Dressing up was okay. Running around the neighbourhood was exciting. I had some sense that the evil was real and I was stepping into it. The teaching about hallowe'en traditions, which I received in public schools explained some of the superstitions though rarely was any spiritual reality acknowledged. One respected teacher did share with me that witches are real and still practice their religion today.
When I grew a bit older and actually paid attention to God and believed in him, I could not continue with acknowledging hallowe'en. (This was my own decision, not from outside teaching.)
Not only do I believe in God...I believe there are really evil spirits. Evil is offensive to God. As one person already commented, the spirit world should not be made light of. Your blog rightly points to Scripture to guide our hearts and consciences. I do not feel that I benefited from the 'fun' I grew up involved with. I would rather feel the imposed guilt of people (those who fear monger that children will rebel if we teach them that loving God sometimes means we don't participate in 'fun' things) than live with the real guilt of dishonouring God. There will be things that we have to give up, as Christians. While some believers do not feel that hallowe'en is one of them, at some point they will have to draw the line. It will be giving up something that might seem enjoyable. There will be pressure from others to violate their conscience. Thank-you for writing this blog. I will share it.
Well said. We do not celebrate hallowe'en either, and as our children were growing up it was a very difficult stand to take. Pressure from the world is tremendous, coming even from Christian grandparents who see no harm in a "fun night". However, God has gifted us with these children and it is up to us to raise them according to his word, not according to tradition. We always made it a family night and our kids never felt that they were missing out on anything. Those who choose to celebrate have made their own decisions, and perhaps some day will have to explain their choices to the almighty. That is not a situation I would want to be in.
I always find it hard to understand why some parents dress their little angels up as devils with horns on their heads. LIke you, it perplexes me why some would want to emulate the devil and celebrate his cause. Your article speaks my mind, excellently! Thank you.
i grew up not celebrate Halloween to my mother looked up the history of it and educated her children about it and others about
Christmas was once a pagan festival too.
Lots of Christians celebrate Christmas and feel personally offended when they are told they can't say "Merry Christmas"
If you do NOTHING for Halloween - don't buy your kids candy, don't send them to "harvest parties" dressed up, no dressing up at all, no middle ground, it is just another day... then I applause you for standing firm in your beliefs and not being a lukewarm Christian. If you do do any of these things, I ask you this: what makes doing those things on that day any different than doing Halloween.
I do "do" Halloween (I find "celebrate" as a term, to be a misnomer in this instance). I wasn't raised Christian and none of my family is - they still do it, I still live with them, I have baby nieces and nephews that dress up and trick or treat... I go with them, or I stay in and hand out candy.
I don't really think either of these things is putting my salvation at risk.
Threatening the worsening of obesity in America? Yep. Reinforcing that it is socially acceptable to take candy from strangers? Yep.
But my salvation? Nope, I think I'm good.
You should've done your research a little bit better. The origin of Halloween started when the church set aside a day to remember the martyrs.
There is nothing wrong with going out and dressing up as a princess or a super hero so your little kids can go and get free candy and have a good day - that they definitely will remember. Also, if you let your kids watch disney movies, if you let them go to disney land, how much better is that? Disney has movies that have sorcery and witches - tangled as a most popular one. So you allow your kids to be open to things like that, but you can't let them enjoy having a little bit of candy. If they are 5-10 years old, do they even know about the ghosts and the witches and such when they go out? probably not. They are just focused on the candy. It's the parents who often blow this all way out of proportion.
http://www.gty.org/resources/articles/a123/christians-and-halloween
We do not celebrate Halloween either, my boys have never gone trick or treating and they know why. We have discussed the origins, they see the evil decorations, they understand at their age level (My 8 year old recently told his friends it was a celebration of Satan's birthday -- close enough for his age). Pretty good evangelism in my books as he was sharing his simple faith in that moment.
We have fun with costumes. My boys each have costumes at home that they wear as they choose and my son's 8th bday was celebrated with a costume party. I buy them candy for treats, they have their own money that they can occasionally buy candy with too...
I respect others choice to trick or treat, I chose to not participate with my family. It's not a simple fun night... and it's an opportunity to share Christ with my children and others when I take a stand against it.
Well stated and written.
Seriously? You do realize that every aspect of Christianity is pilfered from a different religion. Including christ right? You think dressing up and trick or treating is going to risk your soul? How about spreading hate? Bigotry? Close mindedness? You aren't taking a stand against evil by by celebrating Halloween, your just being arrogantly prideful of how hateful and close minded you are. Wait, isn't that a sin? Christ's commandment was "love your neighbor" try that instead of teaching your kid it's ok to hate and think less of people who don't follow your beliefs.
EXACTLY! The kids can go out and get candy dressed up as princesses and super heroes and never encounter anything having to do with witches, evil, or sorcery. However, they CANNOT watch a Disney movie and avoid those things. I find this post highly hypocritical, and I wish the author would address her love for Disney in light of this post.
Perfect
You should move to Finland! In here we don't celebrate Halloween, but something called "pyhäinpäivä" (It's sort of like "saint's day")
In pyhäinpäivä we remember our close ones who have dieed. We place candles to their graves and remember how it was when they used to be with us. Graveyards look so beautiful in the dark when there are hundreds and hundreds of candels light up for the memories of our passed away dear ones. I think it is a very beautiful tradition here in Finland.
although, halloween is landing in here also as a commercial celebration day, and i don't like it.
Having grown up with aspects of ritual abuse in my past and met others online in my healing process, I know that this time of year IS very terrifying. The fear begins to build about mid August and culminates at the end of the tenth month. It slowly subsides by mid November. The day before November 1st is the worst day on the calendar year, even for me, a saved Christian, because of my past. Please, just because we live in a nation that doesn't "see" demonic activity as "real". It is. But then so is Christ, let us try our best to not give our children to the dark one on any day of the year.
All of your uses of scripture are the very reasons why you need to find the best costume you can and get your butt out there! Why do you think Jesus talks about us being lights so much? Because we are supposed to SHINE in DARKNESS! We are never, ever called to hide ourselves away in judgement of others! Paul says that he became all things to all people in order to share the gospel. These guys ate food offered to idols, and put every ritual on its head for good. We're called to share the gospel all the time, not just when it's comfortable and easy and feels good. Scary masks and plastic ghosts have no power against you! Who cares! Teach your daughter about faith by being out there with your neighbours and meeting them and being friendly and having fun together so that you may earn a telling of the gospel. Instead you're shutting yourself in your house on a night when they are literally knocking on your door wanting to meet you!
Wow. As a Canadian Muslim reading this article, I felt like it was the answer to my prayers. It brought so much peace to my heart to know that I am not alone in trying to deal with these issues. My little girls are only 1 and 3 and my husband and I have decided that Halloween is not for us to celebrate. I've been researching a lot this week about it and came across this and just felt so good about our decision. I agree with you 100%. Thanks so much for sharing your wisdom with us.
Ironic all of the disagreement due to holiday origins. Maybe you should take a look at the elements Christmas traditions that are still celebrated - since they're predominately pagan.
Yeah! We don't do Halloween either. If you research other "Christian" holidays you will find pagan roots as well. We don't do Easter either and traditional Christmas practices are also questionable but we do celebrate the birth of Christ. Stay true to your beliefs and be blessed!
I understand why you don't celebrate Halloween. My family sees it the same way. Understand though that God has called us to outshine the darkness while being in the midst of it. Why not go and enjoy in the fun in a safe environment for your family and kids? In the midst of it you could even hand out scriptures or what-not while giving out or receiving treats and candy. It would do a better job of spreading Jesus's love by mingling with the people, but at the same time you aren't taking action in the "dark end" of the matter.
Hope you were able to receive and understand what I was trying to give (:
Thanks for sharing your personal convictions about not celebrating halloween, But thats just what they are your convictions it is not a sin to go trick r treating or put on a costume. I don't know anyone Believer or non believer who celebrates halloween by practicing sorcery, interpreting omens, engaging in witchcraft, casting spells, function as mediums?? or psychics, or trying to call forth the spirits of the dead. you have been watching too many movies. The reason you haven't found much written on it is because the Bible never says not to celebrate Halloween or that every year on the 25th of December to celebrate Jesus's Birthday.
You nailed it. My favorite part is when you said your daughter would have an opportunity to learn to be bold in her faith on this day! You nailed it. Really. If only we looked for more opportunities to teach our children to be bold in their faith as much as we did for them to fit in with the world! Oh how I wish you were my neighbor... we'd be friends! This is our 5th year without it. We used to just do the "friendly" version and then I was convicted. Stand strong dear daughter of the King... His eyes look to and fro looking for those who worship Him in Spirit and truth! Hugs!!!!
Dawn- onebeautifullife.com
Very well put!
Are people really this uptight about holidays now? I just don't get it. I am a Christian and I love Halloween. I'm not out in my front yard sacrificing cats or eating the heads off of infants. It's just a fun holiday. The "evil" you are seeing is all on your head. You are also forgetting that Halloween can, in fact, be a Christian holiday (All Hallows' Day).
Fucking people. I swear we can't do anything without someone being offended these days. I feel sorry that your kids are growing up in such a restricted environment. What is going to happen to them once they get into the real world? You won't be there to shelter them anymore and all of these experiences will be new. That will either cause them to become more sheltered or they will take the opposite route and indulge too much.
I will leave you with this Bible verse:
I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet. 1 Timothy 2:12
So there you go. If you are going to follow the Bible, you have to follow all of it. The selective readings that modern Christians often choose to quote drive me insane. You can't follow selective teachings from the Bible, it's an all or nothing shot. That means you should stop spreading your opinion and trying to educate men.
Good for you for taking a stand! Agree with you 100%!
I'm not offended by your position, but in all due respect I wholeheartedly disagree with you. Honestly, I am tired of other Christians making up their own rules and making other Christians feel guilty or act like they are in jeopardy of not making it into heaven b/c they don't follow their rules. I don't think this was your intention, but a lot of Christians who are in the same boat as you on this topic do this very thing.
Yes, Halloween has some dark history, but so does Easter and Christmas. You fail to bring this up. "Many still celebrate as the holiday was intended." It depends on what you mean by "Many". In fact, the vast majority of people dress their kids up in superman costumes and go trick-or-treating, getting candy from their neighbors. You show photos of what you deem "darkness", yet I just see some carved pumpkins, silly white sheets, and FAKE things you find at any department store at this time of year. To think these things actually are full of "evil" is just silly. In my experience, true evil disguises itself in things that are pleasing to the eye. Take Christmas for example, a holiday that has turned into mass materialism. Do you give your kids presents at Christmas? Do they see Santa (who watches if they've been bad or good, etc, etc) when they're out shopping with you? By celebrating Christmas aren't you saying that's okay? I personally have no problem with Christmas, but I'm playing some devils advocate to give you some perspective.
Yes, we celebrate God who gives life, and not darkness, but just b/c your little girl thinks something looks scary doesn't mean it's inherently evil.
"I am called to be set apart". This is one of the most mis-quoted sentences used by Christians. It's like Christians think to be set apart means we shut ourselves in our homes and completely shut ourselves out from the rest of the world. Have you read Paul's approach to this? He ate meat with pagans when the meat was sacrificed to evil spirits. Yet Paul acknowledged the meat had no power over him, he was saved under the blood of Christ. He did these things to relate to non-Christians and reach out to them.
Honestly, by not participating in Halloween you are telling non-Christians that your own personal beliefs are more important than they are. This is NOT how Jesus wanted us to present ourselves to non-Christians.
I can't address every verse you quoted, but you quoted SO MANY of them out of context it makes me a bit sick to my stomach. You're just using verses to support a personal decision in order to make yourself feel better. Yes, we are to be a light, and that is EXACTLY why we should not exclude ourselves from something like Halloween.
In the end, it's what you make of it. These evil spirits no longer have power over us. We are covered by the blood of Jesus. I encourage you to teach your daughter to reach out to her friends, dress up as a Elsa, have fun getting to know her other neighbors, and have fun as a family.
I am a Christian. I agree with this article and not with the last post. I do not celebrate halloween, christmas, or easter. How can we be a light when we are participating in the same activities that honour evil? And actually, evil spirits DO still have power over people, especially children.
By not celebrating halloween we aren't telling them that we think our beliefs are more important, but that obeying our Lord is.
"Halloween is what you make it"
This is a common justification I hear from Christians who wish to participate. But I would ask, where in the bible is there an example of God's standards being dependent on OUR opinions or perspectives?
Instead, we find that God was displeased any time His people worshiped Him using pagan traditions (high places, sacred groves, using idols, making up their own 'holidays' instead of keeping God's Holy Days, etc...)
So, I do not see any biblical precedent for Christians to observe in any way a day that was set apart to dabble in everything that is an abomination to God; even if "that's not what it means to us"
I choose not to put lipstick on the pig. We are to "be holy, as He is holy." I don't think anyone could make the logical argument that this day comes close to holy, or that Jesus would have kept Halloween in any form. (or any other man-made holiday for that matter)
I am glad you wrote this article. I've abstained from Halloween my whole life, and I don't feel like I missed out on anything. I thank my God in heaven above that I've been called out of darkness into His marvelous light! :)
Thank you for writing this. I agree. Halloween is an opportunity, and one of the main days, for some to embrace the dark side of the spiritual world. It is difficult to others to see this.
Your choices are not mine but I will respect them, as I assume you would respect mine and not try to preach, change or convert me.
There is a difference between wanting to evangelize and save souls, and actively participating in such events. Though Jesus was never afraid to talk to sinners (prostitutes, tax collectors) He never became like them to win them over. More and more I see this attitude today of individuals claiming that if you want to win the world over, you must speak their language, sing their music, dress like them so as to be accessible to them. However, I look at our Lord, at the apostles and the church fathers; though they were invested in saving souls (the Great Commission) they never acted like the world. Coincidentally, it shouldn't surprise us that the Lord used these people with great power from the Holy Spirit, something that is lacking more and more in our lives. If the world is to experience Christ and the salvation of God, they must have a distinct lifestyle to come to with a distinct and clear message. If the church starts behaving like the world, then what difference is there. I would conclude with James 4:4-8; we keep diluting the Word of God with new translation as to not offend someone, but the Scripture is very clear: those that want to live with God yet be like the world are considered adulterous in His eyes. I pray that God help His children be holy and give them sound mind (Philippians 3:15), and "as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." - Joshua 24:15
1 Corinthians 9:19-23. I believe Halloween is a time to share the word with those who are not saved. Give every child who comes to your door an invitation to church and some literature about the bible. Ask parents if they attend church and if not invite them! Nobody said you have to dress up or decorate your house. But how many opportunities do you get to spread the word with so many people in one night that may not know about Jesus?
While I fully understand your conviction not to celebrate Halloween, and I appreciate the selected scripture to showcase your beliefs, I still have a few questions.
What do you do on Halloween when your neighbors ring your bell and knock on your door? What do you neighbors say to you and about you? How many of them have come to know Christ as their savior as a direct result of your choice? Who did you write this article for; other Christians who you hope to convict them of their ignorant and sinful ways? Non-believers who you hope will feel the wrath of God? People who already agree with you who can now pat you on the back and say “good job, you are part of the enlightened now!”? In what way is your choice to condemn all who participate in this holiday an act of love towards the people Christ commanded us to love? And in loving them, aren't we in fact loving Him? Which is greater; staying out of the prison for fear of being associated with the criminals, or visiting the criminals in hope of bringing them the good news? Avoiding the hospitals for fear of getting sick, or healing those who are afflicted? Surrounding yourself with a bubble of Christians who think and do as you do, or going to the table of sinners and eating with them, drinking with them, and showing them God’s grace?
I heard someone say recently something that really moved me to reconsider my plans to be out of the house on this holiday: "You're going to have an opportunity to meet more of your neighborhood in one night this week than on any other night of the year."
What an opportunity! The lame, the sick, the broken hearted, the empty, the lost, the wounded; all of them coming to your door. Will you turn them away, or invite them in? Will you ignore them completely and allow them to pass by your door untouched by grace and love and compassion? Will you reach out to the unloved? Are your children learning how to love, or how to condemn?
In essence, is your choice really furthering God's kingdom, or increasing your own sense of pride and self-reassurance of God's favor on you for being more obedient than the rest of your Christian family?
I’m not at all suggesting that we as Christians need to carve evil symbols in pumpkins, decorate our homes with ghosts and ghouls, or even give out teeth-rotting treats. But I do believe we need to stop condemning people this time of year. We need to stop boasting about how we are such do-gooders and understand how to please God better than anyone else. We need to stop preaching about God’s hatred of this holiday and those who celebrate it. We were never commanded to preach His hate. He does not love you more than the little children dressed as goblins on your street. He does not love you more than the mom and dad who put spider webs all over their homes. And he will never love you less. His love is perfect and casts out fear. And you could never earn it. We need to stop trying to fix those who already have Christ in their hearts, and start loving those who don’t know Him. We need to stop making it difficult to find and follow Jesus, and start making it easier and more accessible to enter into His kingdom. We need to open the door when someone knocks and share the light we have. We need to stop putting up walls that separate out the different kinds of Christians; the more we separate into sects and denominations, the weaker we become as a family, as the body of Christ. None of our good works is enough, and if our “good works” only separate us from those we are trying to reach and keep us segregated from our fellow Christians, then they are no longer good works, but toxic, self-righteous, prideful thoughts that destroy us from the inside out. We can’t let silly disputes like Halloween become what defines us. Christ’s love defines us. And we can’t earn it. That’s why it’s grace.
Verses that helped me form my thoughts:
"For he finds fault with them when he says: 'Behold the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will establish a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah, not like the covenant that I made with their fathers on the day when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt. For they did not continue in my covenant, and so I showed no concern for them, declares the Lord. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my laws into their minds, and write them on their hearts and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. And they shall not teach, each one his neighbor and each one his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,' for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest. For I will be merciful toward their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more.' In speaking of a new covenant, he makes the first one obsolete. And what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away." Hebrews 8:8-13
"But when the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together. And one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question to test him. 'Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?' And he said to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.'" Matthew 22:34-40
"For by grace you have been saved through faith-and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." Ephesians 2:8-9
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:34-35
"And Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold many tax collectors and sinner came and were reclining with Jesus and his disciples. And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" But when he heard it, he said, "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.' For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners." Matthew 9:10-13
"Then the righteous will answer him, saying 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?' And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.'" Matthew 25:37-40
"There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit." Romans 8:1-4
“For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, no things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height no depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us form the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39
http://www.ucg.org/holidays-and-holy-days/can-halloween-be-christianized/
In your vitriolic rant, you muddy the argument, missing altogether an opportunity for healthy dialogue. First, she's not making a treatise or even a commentary on any origins of Christianity. Second, it's unfortunate you mistake a personal conviction and the right to share that opinion for "hate, bigotry, and close-mindedness". Your comment also avoids any part of her argument as you sarcastically project onto her your perceived shortcomings in her parenting style. I actually do not agree with everything she has written. But please, if you're going to refute Christianity (which I'm in favor of you doing), do it with a sense if intellectualism and adherence to the issues at hand.
I really like your post. We don't celebrate Halloween either, but we decided to participate in being the light of Christ on this worldly Holiday.
Our Church has this wonderful outreach event on Halloween. Our church is open to the public.
Our churchrooms are decorated with Bible theme. There is storytelling, fun activities and yes some candy and fruit. Everything points people to Jesus. We are sharing his light.Over 700 people came through and some heard the story of Christ for the first time in there life.My Family incl.my Kids love to participate in this sharing of Christ they are only 5,8 and 11, but they truely are light in this dark night.
https://www.crossroadsinitiative.com/library_article/784/Truth_about_Halloween.html
An article about the true meaning of Halloween.
LOVED!!! My kids detest this Holiday and ask me all month long "Why do people celebrate Halloween? What do they like about it?" They don't understand it at all! And they aren't little Toddlers that would normally be scared by these things! They are 7 and 10 yrs old! They are so afraid to enter any store for fear of seeing something scary! They close their eyes driving down our street because a neighbor has gorey bloody bodies hanging from trees! I'm so grateful that we have a place to escape at our church! They hold their Harvest Festival where kids can dress up if they choose and get to play games to win candy. It's nice to be able to go there instead of stay in our home that happens to be in a neighborhood that goes over the top on Halloween, complete with scary mazes... the kind of neighborhood that people drive into just to trick or treat! I often wonder how my family landed in a neighborhood like this one... maybe God wants us to shine there...
If you wanna get technical. Jesus isnt even His name. It's Yeshua
So glad to see there are Christians and non-Christians alike who rise above the hypocrisy! Some of these comments made me rejoice for the righteousness of what I believe Christianity to be- and others like the poster who said " But please, if you're going to refute Christianity (which I'm in favor of you doing)" HERE now is a perfect example of Un-Christlike behaviour. Pretty sure we are all taught by the Bible that it is NOT our earthly place to judge but God's alone. And we're all sinners. Maybe one day the self-righteous Christians will stop picking and choosing which bible scriptures please them the best, and learn to love everyone in kind as Christ did, eh? One can hope and pray...
This is the most ridiculous thing I have ever read in my entire life. You, my dear, are completely missing the point of who Jesus was and what he represented. To each their own I suppose, but this blog has made me lose faith in humanity. *sigh*
So.....I'm Pagan. Akward :|
Really enjoyed your post, especially the fact that you back it with Bible Scriptures. As a fellow Christian, I would like to know what are your thoughts on Christmas? It is also a pagan custom that has been commercialized as a holiday to promote consumerism; apart from the fact that we celebrate Jesus' birth, which is not the correct date anyways.
I agree, it is what you make it.
Amen and amen. I agree totally not to have anything to do with Halloween. By the way, Noah was in the minority.... and all other true followers of God. God bless all those who stand on The Word of God even if in the minority.
We can never make evil good.....satan wants to deceive us and make us think we can..... And there are many opportunities on a daily basis to witness to others....We should never compromise biblical standards to reach people..... Celebrating something God says He detests is not being a light......
I agree with the above post. It is what you make it. You don't have to participate in the evil side of things. Our children were never allowed to dress up in bloody, gory costumes, no witches, ghosts, anything like that. It was a fun evening, we only went to homes where we knew the people and they were never allowed to eat anything until they got home and we had checked the candy. I respect the decision you have made with your daughter, but I also agree that it is a great way to evangelize. Numerous times throughout the Bible, Jesus was found among the sinners. I think the key is to teach your children about the meaning of the holiday and why they can't wear the bad costumes. Then create your own family, fun memories and go out into your neighborhood and be the light.Be blessed and thanks for sharing.
Your poor children are too sheltered. You Christians take Halloween way too seriously. It's a fun holiday, all it means to the children is to dress up as something fun and get candy! It's not as if they are worshiping the Devil or something my goodness! I hope your children can grow up and learn to not be as close minded as yourself. Makes me sick. As all of the other kids at school or daycare talk about the fun holiday your sheltered child will feel left out.
We are who we are. We're all different in the end. Also you know us none Christian people aren't gonna go out of our way to attack all the Christians for not doing what we like doing. If you don't wanna do it then don't but don't put us none Christian people down for what we believe and like to do.!! Soo judgmental. I'm sure Jesus would approve of that now would he. Some people are so rude.
little kids only know what we tell them. To them Halloween is candy dressing up in costumes and having fun. Unless you tell them about the darkness they'll never know till they're old enough to understand. I believe people should be able to celebrate how they wish or wish not to. So many of our holidays are being criticized because of other religious beliefs. Pretty soon someone will find something wrong with Christmas. I don't celebrate Halloween now but I did when my kids were little. I decorated and I took them around tOo different houses.
Your foul language testifies that you are not Christ like at all. As for the scripture you quoted this is pertaining to leadership and headship that puts man as the head of the family and church, which God ordains in Genesis reiterates all through the bible . Line upon line precept upon precept here a little there a little gives us a clear understanding of Gods word. She is not in conflict with the scripture but merely fulling the commission of letting her light shine while not being conformed to the ways of this world.
Excellent post. Thankyou .
Halloween is All Hallows' Eve, the day before the great feast of All Saints. The day when the Church on earth remembers and gives thanks for all those who have entered Heaven through the redemption Jesus won for us on the cross. Any major feast day starts the evening before.
So I want this night to be reclaimed for the honour of the citizens of Heaven.
Read to each other the stories of the saints. Recall the holy ones from your own family and their virtuous deeds. Research a new Saint each year.
If you feel you must join in the mayhem, do so as a witness to Heaven. Go out dressed as a saint (Peter, Francis, John Paul II, Therese, Bernadette, Cecilia) and instead of going to receive, go out to give. Give holy cards of your Saint, or a quotation from them.
If we're going to talk about origins of things - how about worshiping on Sunday? The origin for that was pagan sun worship and the Church changed the day of worship from Saturday to Sunday in order to make conversion easier. I HOPE you wouldn't do something so foolhardy as to worship on Sunday, right? Not with the horrible origins that it stems from?
Good post, and well put. I have believed this for many years but you're right, it is not a popular position to take, not even among Christians.
http://neilsiemens.blogspot.ca/2009/10/celebration-of-all-that-is-evil.html?m=1
Me too!!! They really don't get that the devil is very REAL!!
Nancy,
The father has made guidelines in his Word and he has said that if we love Him, we will follow those commands.
One of the problems I see in your rationale (though it is clear that your motives are pure), is that it is more Man-fearing than God-fearing.
Not honoring God's guidelines under than reasoning of not wanting to seem "stuck up" or "stuffy" is still,
To the person who commented above me, the same can be said about Christmas: if you teach your kids that it is all about gifts and Santa, then that is all they will know, not the true origin of this holiday - Jesus being born. Or Easter: you can teach your kids that it's only about chocolate eggs and a cute bunny, not the origin - resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Teaching your kids that it is okay to dress in "cute" costumes on Halloween and not telling them the origin is still taking part in the celebration, there is nothing to set you apart AS A CHILD OF LIGHT, because to me as a Christian, this is what it comes down to....
Beautifully written! God bless your family :)
Excellent Blog! You hit it on the nail! 17 years ago we were asked if we were taking our daughter trick or treating. And what came out of my mouth even surprised me. I said, 'No, it doesn't honor God." And that has disarmed and talk thereafter. My kids are now 20 and 16 and don't think anything of Halloween, cause we never made it a big deal! Besides we have taught them foundational truth of being a Christian, in their actions, not just in words.
Why do you have to be so rude. It seems to me that she was expressing her point of view and her stand on Halloween, which she has a right to, just as you have a right to believe however you believe in it. Sharing is a freedom of speech and at no moment did I read anything where she is pushing anyone to not do it,
The person I see that is doing selective readings is you by posting that verse which is totally uncalled for. If you don't like it, then don't like it but there is no need to curse or insult! Everyone has the right to their opinions, putting some one down for whatever it may be (whether you agree with it or not) it's just plain rude and unnecessary.
Jesus was not born on December 25th. Christmas is a pagan holiday.
Thank you for your post. Very well written. My husband is a pastor. We hand out hot cocoa packets with a scripture attached. We try to be a light in a dark 'holiday'.
Actually it is impossible to go trick or treating and not encounter witches ghosts and other evil. People decorate there houses with so much evil that any kid will see it. I hate Halloween because of all the evil costumes and decorations. I would never want my kids to think that it's ok to celebrate the evil side of this world. I never celebrated holloween and I'm fine. I don't feel left out or anything. I told people about Jesus when they asked me why I don't celebrate. That's how we should evangelize to them.
Thank you for sharing your post! I agree with you and hope the people who don't see this holiday as PURE EVIL don't get you discouraged with their 'reaching the dying world' mantra. You can go soul-winning and witness 364 days out of the year, yet they make an excuse to participate in the wickedness of this day. Why don't we show love,compassion and kindness to our neighbors every day of the year and then choose not to participate in their activities one day!
I wrote an article about that too
http://happymedley.blogspot.com/2013/10/unpopular-choice.html
An interesting article but 99% of people who celebrate Halloween are doing so with innocent intentions. Its actually a beautiful picture of communal generosity where whole communities buy treats for children they don't even know. These strangers collectively make a sweet memory for children to cherish. How can you dump on something like that? Instead you'll be known as the "grinch" on your street as you sit on your high horse judging everyone around you. Kids won't see your stance as noble. Instead you'll be driving them further from you and your goal to convert them.
You didn't do enough research as you likely celebrate Easter or "Ishtar", which is pronounced "Easter". This was a day that commemorated the resurrection of one of their gods that they called "Tammuz", who was believed to be the only begotten son of the moon-goddess and the sun-god.
Christmas is a pagan holiday as well. Do you put a Christmas tree in your living room? That is a pagan ritual. Most of the hymns are former bar tunes. Even the story of Noah's ark was borrowed and modified from the pagan Sumerian story which pre-dates the ark by thousands of years. According to an ancient Christian tradition, Christ died on MAR-23 and resurrected on MAR-25. These dates agree precisely with the death and resurrection of the pagan god Attis. The notion that Jesus was born of a virgin was also borrowed from Greek lore and is loosely grounded on a non-related prophecy in the book of Matthew from Isaiah. Virgin birth was a pagan deity sign.
Do yourself a favor and just give out some candy to the kids and let your kids dress up as super heroes or something of the sort. Otherwise go all the way and protest everything like Apple who uses slave labour to create your iPhone and Nike who uses child labour to make your sneakers.
I would have prefered you to say you were a Jahova, or Mormon,or whatever religion you are participating in. But I am offended that you chose Christian to categorize yourself in!! As Not all of us Christians agree with you, or have the same belief's as you do!! Nor would I ever act as you have acted in this post!! As I do not see your words as being Christian!! I am a Christian and I love the Halloween season!! I love being able to give to others!! Whether it be treats, tricks, memories, excitement, or Happiness. I as a Christian choose to guide my children in a positive manner, looking for good in everything, instead of evil!! One of the memories my children have of Halloween, is a house that handed out Adventure in oddysey Cd's. They thought that was the best most generous Halloween treat to receive, Ever!! They couldn't wait to get home and listen to their new CD!! You all can choose to live in fear and hate, or you can choose to open your doors and lovingly, unjudingly, help spread the word of God in a happy manner!! Posts like this, turn people away from being Christian!! Post like this, make people not want to become Christian!! Posts like this make the rest of us Christians look BAD, by association!! So the next time you choose to write a post like this, do NOT say you are a Christian!! Say you are Jahova, Mormon, or whatever religion you are!! But do the rest of us Christians a favor, and Do Not say you are a Christian!! Post like this are not Productive, but destructive!!
It's funny that churches condemn "celebrating" Halloween by trick or treating which is supposedly evil. But it's perfectly okay to "celebrate" the evening with a church pool party or the like on the same night. Celebrating is celebrating.
You say Jack o lanterns are evil too Bc they were used to Ward off evil spirits...but you guys still went to the pumpkin patch?
I hope you don't give your kids a birthday cake either as it's a pagan ritual which began in Ancient Greece, when people brought cakes adorned with lit candles to the temple of Artemis, goddess of the hunt. The candles were lit to make them glow like the moon, a popular symbol associated with Artemis.
Many ancient cultures also believed that smoke carried their prayers to the heavens. Today’s tradition of making wishes before blowing out your birthday candles likely started with that belief.
The Lord wouldn't want you to celebrate the birth of your children with pagan symbols now would he? I hope you aren't living with double standards as what would the neighbors think? Scandalous!
Both Halloween and Christmas are Pagan holidays. Halloween, as described above, and Christmas is the Pagan day of trees, used by the Catholic church to convert the Pagans to Christianity. That's why we have a Christmas tree.
However, as a child Christmas and Halloween were taken away from me because my parents joined a different church, which almost didn't allow him to join because he was a police officer. They said it was because he "MAY" have to kill someone.
I didn't understand why they were taken away from me. I didn't understand why the kids in my class could do all this stuff, and I was made to leave the classroom, not participate in the class parties, and why I had to do extra work. It is unfair to a child to do this. Older children, teens or maybe preteens, may understand, but small children DO NOT! Let them participate with their friends as children and when they are older, and can understand, then they can stop participating. Take it from someone who has been there, IT HURTS to go through this as a child.
Thank you for your post. A friend shared it on Facebook. I grew up not celebrating Halloween either. Yes, sometimes an awkward silence filles the room when you tell others you don't celebrate this holiday and that you don't participate in trick or treating. I have read some of the earlier posts disagreeing with your decision, some more intense in their disagreement and others even filled with hate... I grew up in a country where Halloween was not celebrated and moved at the age of 10, old enough to understand right from wrong and that there is a spiritual world that we cannot see. It was shocking to see people celebrating ghosts and goblins and not even give a thought that evil spirits truly exist; their primary goal is to destroy us.
Good for you for taking a stand. There are many others who feel the same way. My husband and I will not be taking our son trick or treating as I feel this holiday has become scarier and even darker over the last 20 some years I have been here.
We celebrate Christmas by not focusing on the Christmas tree, although we had one growing up, but by focusing on God's gift, Christ and savior of this world. We celebrate Easter, but not with the cute little Easter bunnies, but on focusing on Christ's redemptive death on the cross. Yes, having done a search the dates these holidays fall on originated from pagan celebrations;however at some time the church decided to have their own holidays on the same date, with different traditions. Perhaps now is the time for the church to make a new Christ-centered holiday on this day or other day....
Stay strong, be courageous in your faith. My brother and I do not resent our parents for having taught us the Truth and for not allowing us to participate in this holiday.
Both Halloween and Christmas are Pagan holidays. Halloween, as described above, and Christmas is the Pagan day of trees, used by the Catholic church to convert the Pagans to Christianity. That's why we have a Christmas tree.However, as a child Christmas and Halloween were taken away from me because my parents joined a different church, which almost didn't allow him to join because he was a police officer. They said it was because he "MAY" have to kill someone. I didn't understand why they were taken away from me. I didn't understand why the kids in my class could do all this stuff, and I was made to leave the classroom, not participate in the class parties, and why I had to do extra work. It is unfair to a child to do this. Older children, teens or maybe preteens, may understand, but small children DO NOT! Let them participate with their friends as children and when they are older, and can understand, then they can stop participating. Take it from someone who has been there, IT HURTS to go through this as a child.
Lets not forget mistletoe is a pagan tradition and it wasnt simply a kiss. The Easter egg and bunny are both symbols of pagan fertility of spring. In fact the name of one of the goddesses the egg and bunny symbolize is Eoster (or something similar). Many of the traditions Christians use for their holidays are simply repurposed pagan ones.
Hold on, as the above comments mentions "We celebrate Christmas by not focusing on the Christmas tree, although we had one growing up, but by focusing on God's gift, Christ and savior of this world. We celebrate Easter, but not with the cute little Easter bunnies, but on focusing on Christ's redemptive death on the cross."
Well if you can selectively celebrate Christmas and Easter by disregarding the negative why can't you do the same for Halloween?
Double standards people.
Oh snap!
Wonder if she will respond to any of these? I will be checking back later :)
Thank you. We don't celebrate as the world does, either
Very curious to see if you address the issue of using Christmas and Easter items that are of pagan origins. Also the birthday & Disney thing as well (its not something i was thinking but they have a point. Everyone has their own opinion and i respect yours but id love to hear your responses.
We trick or treated in our neighborhood and there wasnt anything my two year old or my friends 3 year old was afraid of. Nothing of the sort was in any yard except a blow up pirate ship with cartoonish skeletons that they thought was funny.
THANK YOU for posting this! These are my exact feelings. I am so thankful that there are others who feel the same way and are standing up for their beliefs, no matter what the world says. I admire your stance very much. Thank you again.
I also wanted to say that I read some of the other comments about how the holiday is what you make it and there's no harm in dressing up and letting your kids have fun. But again, I love what you said. What a bigger and better calling we have as parents who love the Lord... to teach our children what it means to be set apart and children of light! =)
I found my way here after my FB feed got your blog entry posted to it. You have a picture of one of your neighbor's homes with their Halloween decorations in the yard and you've labeled it as, "Darkness here." I dunno, if I were your neighbor (and there is a good chance that if this gets passed around on FB they could find the link and see the picture) I wouldn't be all fired up to listen to anything you had to say, especially Christianity. I'd be more likely to consider you a judgmental, hard-to-get-along-with neighbor. I would never do that to one of my neighbors. We live in a dark world. I've seen darker things go down at church board meetings. Consider removing your neighbor's picture...in the spirit of the holiday season and all.
Oh, and please come back in 15 years and let know how it works out with your daughter not getting to trick or treat during her childhood. And no fair going to a pumpkin patch gotta go whole hog cold turkey. (and I'd like to second the idea of reviewing your Disney trips....consistency's sake).
All the best! I'm off to go trick or treating with my kids. (they are going dressed as a penguin and a horse, not that that matters).
I am a new Christian and I read this article in anticipation of learning something new. and I did. I believe in the KISS principle ,keep it simple .I think from what I have learned from the Bible that what you do in your physical body at any moment in time you will be accountable for when the judgment comes . I would not look forward to God asking me why I dressed up like a witch or any other evil thing at any other time even on Halloween . god is love God is light and I choose to serve him rather than be associated with Satan and his dark side . I am a Seventh day Adventist and I am proud to say that .
I agree completely with what you have stated, since having children I researched and had to figure out for myself what I wanted as a Christian and parent what I would do on Halloween. I believe we make a bigger statement by our actions on that evening than anything else. By participating we are accepting all of what Halloween is about and I don't see how that is giving a light to the world when we are participating in the darkness.
I am a very faithful Christian. However I see this day as a dress up day. I have a little six yr old girl. What am I to tell her. God doesn't want her to be a princess so I let her dress as a Princess and tonight we are going to our church to play game and have a harvest party. Just another name to change the name of the day what ever your child wants to be. Kids will be kids and want to have fun with there friends I grew up a catholic and we participated in the costumes and then trick or treating. And Catholics have there rules too. So why as a christian does my child have to do with out the fun when I got to as a Catholic. Anyway just saying. Haloween. All halows eve. Harvest party. Whatever you want to call. Let your child have fun
I'm sure this also means you don't celebrate Christmas because its roots are in the pagan celebration of Saturnalia? What about the 4th of July or any Presidents Day. Those holidays (with exception of present day Christmas) clearly have no association with God and bring no glory to Him.
Another Christian viewpoint:
http://youtu.be/LyfXTBdegQM
I have felt like this for quite a while, many say, its innocent, its for kids...but its not, its far more than that! Thank you for exposing the darkness, as we share your thoughts to the world. Be blessed!
The apostles of Christ gathered on the first day of the week, and broke bread, does it mean they were worshipping pagan Gods? EX Adventist
Dont force your belief on others!
Is not Australian, so why is it celebrated here?
All Hallows' Day is an important celebration in the calendar of many Christian faith traditions in Orthodox, Roman Catholic and Protestants churches. It is about remembering the dead, including those who died for their faith. Characterise that as 'celebrating' death if you will. It is significant that it initiates a period of reflection on these topics prior to Advent - dedicated to life and hope in the coming of Christ.
The post mentions the supposed link between Halloween and Samhain. Although there was an ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, this had not been celebrated for centuries until the mid-Twentieth Century neo-pagan invention of the Wheel of the Year and there is no evidence that it impacted the traditions associated with All Hallows' Eve to any greater extent than pre-Christian religious symbolism and rituals affected the traditions of Christmas, Easter and other Christian celebrations.
I also reject the idea that the all loving, all welcoming Christ I know would not have participated in a harvest celebration honouring those we loved and have lost. Despite the proof texted verses quoted I see no biblical basis for this and every biblical basis for the reverse.
Georgie
"It's what you make it" is what backwater corn bred's say. It's not what you make it fools, it is what it is.
I really enjoyed this article. Lot thought Sodom and Gommorah (no it is not in reference toward homosexuality)looked good too. Most of the people justifying celebrating Halloween and other pagan rooted holidays are really more idolizing their children, their own childhoods, traditions, than God. And if you want to be a light in the darkness then have an actual Church service not candy or games, but with the Spirit of God and his word. Or go out and talk about Jesus, go out and heal people. Or are people really just wanting to whore their children out for fun and candy rather then showing people they are His children and being his Holy (different) people from the world. Lot was going to give up his daughter to evil to appease it. Because to be the light you are to be different from dark not having a part in it, but shining through it. However people will believe what they want, celebrate how they want, and justified it anyway they can.
Many years ago, when people knew these days were evil, most people didn't join in the celebrations. Why? Because people understood that you don't want to get involved with evil events. But then parents started letting their kids participate in these evil events because they look like fun things. Satan didn't come to Eve with a rotten fruit and convince her to eat it. He used a beautiful fruit that was NOT supposed to be eaten per God's rules. Satan deceived Eve by saying, "it's not so bad, just eat it and become enlightened and LIKE GOD". So Eve did. And Satan uses the same trick to this day and deceived many many people. "It's not so bad. Sure God told you not to, but who knows? You may like it! Give it a go". And then as parents started having their kids participate in these things, it became normal. But now, if you stick up for God's way of life, so many people jump on you to try and beat you down mentally until you cave and give up on God's way of life because it's "weird and unusual". Why don't you for once try and be "weird and unusual" by following God instead of man? Follow God to Heaven, of follow man to destruction? Seems like an easy choice to me. Pick which path you want, but I will gladly be deemed "weird and unusual" or whatever other name you see fit for me since I follow God and keep His Laws and Commandments and Ordinances. Everyone wants to be accepted for their life choices and beliefs, but I know I will be unaccepted by most for my beliefs and life choices.
PRAISE GOD FOR INSTRUCTING US IN ALL THINGS, PRAISE GOD
Have you ever heard of Memorial Day. The day we honor our fallen war dead and veterans. Well, there are a couple of days we are supposed to remember our dead. Those who have gone on before us. Those days are November 1st and November 2nd - oddly enough Halloween or All Hallows Eve is the day before all Saints Day. To remember those who proceeded us in death, kind of a Memorial Day for all the dead. Sure it's a pagan day the early church tried to turn into a Christian Holiday, kinda like Christmas and Easter both pagan Holidays, too.. and you can celebrate them either from a Christian perspective or a secular perspective. You won't beat down Halloween and the almighty dollar behind it, but you can change it's meaning, in your family
To Ronny!
IT HURTS not being able to participate in these worldly things as a child??? REALLY??? HELL IS GOING TO HURT!!! I grew up that way not being allowed to participate in these worldly rituals and Can say with a VERY THANKFUL HEART!!! That the protection my parents gave me, FAR outweighs exclusion I felt as a child!!!
It's really quite simple. If you are a Christian, ask yourself, "Would Jesus be participating in ________(fill in the holiday, event, etc)?" No? That should tell you all you need to know. With all the negative comments on here, I find it hard to believe that modern Christians even know what it means to love thy neighbor... They're too busy telling each other to go to hell because they don't like hearing that they have to put the world aside and take up their cross.
Great article and love the way you celebrate but hate that you come across as belittling Christians that do choose to celebrate. Sometimes as Christians we paint ourselves as someone we are not. We are not perfect and sinless but broken and sinful. When I look at your family you look like something picture perfect. You appear as if you have it all together. I can't even see a lost soul coming in 50 feet of you in fear of being judged or feeling as if they are not good enough. Be real and meet people where they are at. Go out and be a light to those trick or treaters. Serve them. Let them see Christ in you. http://www.vergenetwork.org/free-guide-how-to-be-missional-this-halloween/
I grew up in a Christian home, I remember trick or treating one year in 1st grade and knowing my mom wasn't thrilled with the idea. I remember some halloween party at my Christian school, I think mom felt pressured to let us celebrate. Every year after that we did not celebrate. I remember staying indoors with most lights off (so people wouldn't come to the door) and sometimes having candy, sometimes reading about the origins of halloween. As an adult I have gone to parties with church friends and dressed up. I still don't know what I will do with my kids someday, but I lean towards not celebrating. Regardless of what I decide, I greatly appreciate my mom taking a stand and teaching us about being different from the world. It was very tough at times...no one in our church understood where we were coming from. I greatly value having this experience so I know where others come from. I now work at a Christian school and October 31st is simply the end of October to us..no costumes, candy, specialness in anyway and I like it. I'm just now realizing I don't want to ever be "hiding" in my house in the darkness this night, as I wouldn't do that any other night. Perhaps I will answer the door and explain how we don't celebrate because we believe in Jesus who defeated death and is stronger than any scary thing. I'm sure I'll get confused faces and eye rolling from adults...hopefully no eggs on the house. Thanks for sharing and I want you and others to know you are not alone in your choice to not celebrate, I know of at least 3 families from my school who do not. It just feels like we are alone, which maybe somehow could be solved. Sorry for the long comment, I guess I had a lot to share.
I agree 100%
I know my opinion will not be popular here. I was raised in a non-denominational Christian church. My mom was raised as a Baptist. We celebrated Halloween. It doesn't mean we worship the Satan. It doesn't mean we don't love Jesus. My mom once told me the story about how she would go to Sunday school and her teacher would tell her how evil movies were, how she shouldn't see them. My mom said she didn't think she was doing anything wrong. Back then movies weren't what they are now. So, she kept going to the movies, and guess who she saw coming out of the show one Sunday afternoon?? Her Sunday school teacher. In my mom's humble opinion, this woman was definitely sinning. That being said, my Seal Team 6 member, and my hot dog, did not go trick or treating because it was sleeting outside. As much as I would love everyone to believe as I believe, in Jesus and God, we live in a country where we have been granted the freedom to believe as we please. That also means that other people have the right to believe as they want also. I hope that you and yours do not try to ruin what in my children's heart is a fun holiday to carve pumpkins and eat candy. I'm fine with you not celebrating, and I respect your decision to parent as you please. God bless, and God bless America.
Hi! I would love it if you would read this blog post my husband wrote last Halloween. We don't "like" Halloween either, but we have chosen to reclaim it for Christ in order to teach our children how to be shining lights for Jesus even on the darkest night of Halloween. This year, my 5, 3, and 2 year old all sat and helped me make treat bags with tracts and then we went to a local nursing home. They dress up almost every day, so to them today was no different. We passed out the treats and tracts, sang to the residents, and just spent time sharing the love of Jesus with them. Every year, we love having trick or treaters come to our home because it's the ONLY night of the year that we have tons of kids coming and asking for something. Why would we miss out on such a wonderful opportunity to share the love of Jesus?? Last week, somebody asked my 3 year old daughter what Halloween is. Her response was "It's another day we go and tell people about Jesus."
http://relentless-brettpagan.blogspot.com/2013/10/why-give-devil-his-day-different-view.html
hi again. Not sure why the link to my husband's blog post did not work in my last comment.
Here it is again:
http://relentless-brettpagan.blogspot.com/2013/10/why-give-devil-his-day-different-view.html
I am a Christian. I read the blog post and whole heartedly agree with her. What I cannot understand is the blatant hostility in comments from both Christian and non-Christian readers. She, as well as others who commented, are sharing their personal convictions…not asking for opinions or votes or judgements. We all have the freedom of speech, why be so hateful?? Just because I hold a deep conviction on some point does not mean that I am condemning your opinion if it is different than mine. Or do you, indeed, yourself condemn those who have convictions differing from yours??
It's funny how in the article bit says that the holiday is filled with spirits, superstition, and fear. It reminded me of the Christian religion itself
It's funny how the article says the hollowed holiday is filled with spirits, superstition, and fear. It's reminds me of the Christian religion itself.
Every Christian is better than every other Christian. God speaks and delivers a different message to us all. That's why there are 3000 denominations. Regretfully I'm fulfilling God's will and living for the lord better than you
AMEN! As a mum who was brought up as a worldly child, I didn't think of Halloween as anything but candy. As a Christian now, and as a parent, my husband and I do NOT DO ANYTHING AT ALL WITH HALLOWEEN. Nada. At best, I will sometimes buy him cheap candy after the fact. With our kids, we explained that it was a day to worship satan, essentially, and as Christians, we don't want to do that. Did I buy candy for my kids? Yep, but they got it on the day I bought it, not given to them on the 31st.
What I truly do NOT understand is this whole malarkey of "trunk or treat" Or "fall festivals" in "Churches" that hide the fact that they are trying to sanitize Halloween and not let the kids feel left out. Um, excuse me, but when should a church that professes Christian beliefs celebrate their arch enemy? Evil, and satan, simply CANNOT and IMO SHOULD NOT be sanitized in any way shape or form. And yes, I do not capitalize the S in satan, because I am NOT giving that evil any respect.
When Christians try to win the world by being like the world, all that ends up is that the Christians walk away from their faith, or have it compromised. Get over yourselves about being left out, it's going to happen if you truly follow Christ.
I agree with you. Let's not dishonor God by compromising the truth just to please others. Let evil be deemed as evil.
I get what you are saying and I think its wise to really evaluate what we are teaching our children as Christian Parents. But one thing Ive always thought to myself is, what about all the occults and paegans other days of celebration through the year? Are we supposed to really pay that much attention to what theyre doing? What if they do rituals with water on July 18th? Am I to avoid laundry and baths that day? I don't really wanna live my life acknowledging them. We are to keep ourselves avoid of the knowledge of evil. That being said, I have for many years wondered off and on if I should take my kids to Halloween Church events to play on bounce houses and eat hot dogs while filling up a bag of candy and wearing a costume and Ive come to the conclusion that I have no convictions in my heart to restrain me from doing otherwise, and so I don't. I have faith the holy spirit would tap me on the shoulder if I am to feel otherwise. Much Love
Thank you for your thoughts. Very well said. My observation is that those who accuse you of being judgmental are in fact the ones who are judging. Some years I have organized activities at our church for our children and youth. We offered it as a Halloween alternative, and often called it just that. Generally our activities have consisted of snack supper, games, and a piñata. Our purpose has been that if we are asking our children to not celebrate this "holiday," then we need to offer them activities that are appropriate. Some of the comments on this post have expressed concern about "sheltering" our children too much from the things of this world. Frankly, as a Christian parent, I do not see how we can shelter our children too much. My job is to prepare our son for heaven, not try to help him fit in on this earth... Fortunately, we now live out a little ways from town~~only 6 houses on our street. We started the evening with a campfire, and then as a family we watched, "God's Not Dead." Rather appropriate, don't you think?
You just contradicted yourself so many times in the post is not even funny. She already explained what stance she is taking and the Christian example it brings when she doesn't participate in Halloween. You earlier point about how not participating you inturn shown your own beliefes are more important then then they are is completely false. By taking a stance you show where you allegiance is [our beliefs define us, just like in the biblr it states if you act as if you are ashamed to be associated with his name he will do the same to you Mark 8:38]. We are to lead by example. Just like if someone asks me if sex before marriage is okay or if pornography is okay.... I would say no the bible says it ain't so. I don't say I don't have a position on the topic because I don't want to offend someone because my belief and faith isn't succinct with your ideas. Or should i not tell sinners that the only way you can have ever lasting life is if they believe in jesus.... or according to you ,because my beliefes are not more important then they are I not let them know they are in the wrong. Your basically stating the exact thing the Pharisees told to Jesus when he told them Gods position and view of there actions. No can deny the there is evil tied to Halloween. You have two poles in this world darkness and light, Evil or Good, heaven or hell. If Halloween isn't from Jesus then it can only be from someone else. This is a perfect example of when people become defensive and resort to the argument that it's are our belief system is being exclusive. There is a reason why Jesus and the apostles were persecuted and same goes for us now a days. Not everyone is going to believe, understand, or acknowledge what we have to say. Many times they will just ridicule and reject what we have to say. And by not participating we lead by example just as in abstaining from sin. Two Wright don't make a right. I don't judge the sinner for celebrating and condemn them with showing them love. But I sure don't and partake in his sinful actions. The would show your approval in the behavior especially if you don't voice your opinion on the matter. Same goes for Halloween.
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You are here: Culture Religion Expert Exposes Real Danger of Halloween
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Religion Expert Exposes Real Danger of Halloween
10:00AM EDT 10/27/2014 Deborah Hamilton
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(Reuters)
With Halloween just days away, children—and some parents, too—are eagerly anticipating donning costumes and asking for a 'treat' from neighbors as the price for not having a 'trick' played on them. Meanwhile, decorations designed to terrify—from skulls and witches to life-sized graveyards and giant insects—have turned homes across America into virtual haunted houses.
It's all just harmless fun. Or, is it?
Religion and culture expert Dr. Alex McFarland says that while many see Halloween as a chance to dress up and get goodies, there is real danger involved.
"Many of the common activities and themes associated with Halloween provide opportunities for harmless fun and togetherness," McFarland said. "At this time of year, churches often capitalize on the spiritual openness of people, on children's capacity for imagination and on the enthusiasm that Halloween generates. But parents need to know that beneath the costumes and make believe are spiritual realities that should be taken seriously."
As an example, McFarland points to the prevalence of witchcraft and the occult during the Halloween season. Indeed Wicca, which is the prominent religion of witchcraft, views Halloween, or 'Samhain,' as a high holy day, and a day for communicating with the dead.
"Halloween in America has become a celebration of darkness and of the supernatural as it relates to darkness," McFarland continued. "This is compounded by the fact that people long for spiritual experiences, spiritual fulfillment and a place to 'fit in'—all of which are promised by witchcraft and other occult activities. While it used to be that witchcraft was widely viewed as evil, today there is growing mainstream acceptance of it. Much of our media and culture in recent years has centered on themes of witchcraft, vampirism, communication with the dead and paranormal phenomenon in general—for example, the 'Twilight' books and films; Katy Perry's 'Dark Horse' performance at the Grammys, which had the feel of a satanic ritual; Nicki Minaj's 'Roman Holiday' performance; and more. Halloween annually fans this cultural trend."
McFarland adds that because the supernatural is real and not simply a figment of the imagination, playing with the supernatural should not be taken lightly.
"One must use caution and exercise discernment when seeking spiritual reality, meaning and truth," he said. "The Bible clearly speaks out against occult practices and all forms of witchcraft. Today, many dismiss the Bible as outdated or marginally relevant at best, but it contains clear and emphatic prohibitions against occult involvement, in both the Old and New Testaments. This is not because God wants to take away our fun but because He loves us and wants us to be protected from evil spiritual entities whose desires are to deceive and destroy. Could it actually be that there is tangible danger in opening oneself up to certain types of spiritual experiences by participating in a supposedly innocuous celebration of a day devoted to death, darkness and witchcraft? According to the Bible, yes."
My brother and I used to dress up as Bible characters....talk about a gateway to talking about Jesus! We got asked a lot of questions
Thank you so much for sharing this may God bless you and your family. It is so painful to see when God proclaiming people not even take time to consider with what they are associating them self and their children. I share your post with few of my friends and hope they will take time to read and pray about it, and dressing them self as a skilleten or witch they will not say it is fun.
Christians are the most judgemental people on the planet. Worshipping a religion that fought wars and promoted bloodshed. You're all following a book written by men like drones. Yes, all the children dressed as Elsa and Ninja Turtles will burn in hell. You people are ridiculous and I feel sorry for you all. You'll soon realize how ridiculous you all are when you die and know that everything you follow was written by humans that were good story tellers and manipulators.
:-) Glad someone with influence is speaking truth instead of holding light to "Fall" festivals. I've always been the minority on this too... even had some intense conversations with Christian radio show hosts promoting Christians celebrating Halloween. I've even had Christian friends posting arguments this year as to why Halloween is really a Christian holiday. Don't kid yourselves, dressing up as princesses makes it no more Godly or purposeful than attending a coven meeting and not chanting, or holding the cup but not drinking the blood of a sacrificed animal. You can't dance with things that are not ordained by God and say we are dancing in Hid light. We absolutely must be set apart, and we cannot pretend that something innately bad is good because the way we partake of it is only the good. Isn't holding hands good? So, what difference is there in holding hands with a killer and holding hands with a rescuer? holding hands with evil and holding hands with Godly? be not deceived. We are not of this world. Live with purpose. Know what you believe and know the truth behind what you do & why you do what you do...or don't do it. I mean not just one resource or even two, or even just those authored by Christians... I mean really find out. For example, as reliable and accurate as History channel can be it is also slanted to a producers point of view and the resources he or she used, and in the case of Halloween history it is very lacking in the fullness of it's evolution. AND Yes, it is the same with other "religious" or semi-religious holidays such as Christmas and Easter... However, remembering the Birth of Christ (even if it isn't on His actual birthday is Biblical--- the hoopla and customs associated with it are not), and Yes, it is Biblical to remember the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, again not to be confused with a bunny or an egg or a new dress... Knowing the who, what, when, where, and why is important... weighing that against the Word of God is more important, and being at Peace within our spirit between us and God is priceless. Know this, no one is going to hell because they celebrated Halloween, and no Christian looses their salvation in Christ because they went trick or treating... it's about living holy, living in a way that makes you obviously a Christian, a true believer of the faith and not a poser. I didn't and won't condemn those who participate in something against my convictions, but I will share my convictions so that others can know and even understand why I live the life I live.
http://www.christianpost.com/news/kirk-cameron-on-halloween-christians-should-have-the-biggest-party-on-the-block-128345/
I have never believed in being a part of Halloween. I do find the fact the devil has pulled out all the stops to stomp on one day very interesting. Jesus lived 33 1/2 years died at Passover (April on average) minus 6 mo. is not Dec 25. Jewish custom was to dedicate every male and circumcise them at 8 days old. I believe Jesus was dedicated on Oct. 31st. All of those that think playing with the Devil for one day a year has to be heart braking for Him.
Right there with you. Last year my daughter started getting spooked by all the Halloween stuff and it was not a good influence on her. Talk of monsters, being scared, etc. I don't wish that for her. This year we avoided it as much as possible. It had a new appeal to her -- the costumes and such -- but we kept her oblivious to it as much as possible and are so glad it is done. She's only 3.
Anyway -- THANK YOU for your blog! I did search for anyone else taking this stance a few weeks ago and found nothing really. Very thankful when a friend posted this article on her FB.
Thank You so much for doing this I feel like so many christians that I know personally celebrate this holiday and I feel like im the only one who doesn't. It makes me feel so much better to know that others feel the same way.
<3 God bless you
Oh WOW!!! It amasses me to see how many opinions, and how many distorted reasons some people are taking these days to excuse their actions and how alarming is to see so called Christians defending evil.
I was raised outside of the States and my family celebrated the pagan parts of Christmas and Easter. As for October 31st it was celebrated the day of the dead where people would take flowers to the cemetery in the memory of the loved ones. However, during this last mentioned holiday we as children often competed with others in crafting pumpkins and we would lit the candles inside them to "lit" the way to those going to/from cemetery. It was before I was 8 years old when I realized there WAS something wrong about that and I have noticed that many Christian families (including mine) were practicing things that are not in accordance with God's Will. You see, God will help us discern things even if we don't fully understand them. He says that even children will not stumble on His path. Be honest with yourself! Ask Him to help you understand HIS Will. So many parents sacrifice the Word of God for the fear that children will rebel against them.
Many say the origins means celebrating martyrs, or celebrating the loss of loved ones, or celebrating the harvest day... Isn't interesting in all cases it is October 31st? The truth is because there is only one holiday where people "celebrated" the so called It's-what-you-make-it-to-be!
1) To those claiming " It's what you make it to be" I would like to ask them: Should a serial killer be convicted for having FUN killing other people? After all, he was having fun doing it... He sees nothing wrong with it and (some will say) God is Love, HE will forgive the killer even if he does not repent and he will commit more crimes over again. Some will jump to say we are called to Love our neighbors even if they are planning on killing us or our family members. If someone demands authorities to prosecute the killer, they suddenly become Haters and quite "hypocrites" for not being Loving like Christ. After all, Christians means Christ-Like!!! Then since when Christ-Like should defend the devil? Or, is it that for some "caring" around the Name (Christian) is plenty enough to set the difference? Some might say I'm exaggerating...think again!!! What's the difference from a Luke-Warm Christian claiming to be right (when God Clearly says IT IS Wrong) versus a serial Killer stating he is innocent? Just asking...
2)To those "seeking" the opportunity to share the gospel of Christ, I shall ask them: Do you NOT see any other opportunity year-around to show God's love and grace? Why not organizing with the church/group/club an event on July 20th? Kids will have much more fun during summer, the day is longer and you have more time to talk about God to those that will "normally" not come to church...
3) To those with fear the child will rebel against them at later times. The Bible says in Proverbs 22:6 " Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it." The self centered mindset must be trained in the ways of the Lord. The children will know it is pleasing God to respect HIS Word.
4) I read some posts stating that "Maybe" God doesn't mind us celebrating the evil holiday... Oh My... what kind of so called Christians some have come to "Evolve"? Mocking God's own Word when God said it Clear it is against His will. Or are some saying that God will have to change his mind on what He should/shouldn't accept just because we have fun doing those things? Don't let yourself deceived! Study God's Word, The Bible and you shall find the truth!
You r a super wise mama! I'm raising my kids in the same manner, my daughter who is 5 and just started school, is backed up by this with her school. It is truly amazing we have such awesome opportunities in America. Please continue voting for the future of our children, there are some important decisions being made in this ballot. VOTE BY NOV 4th!
How interesting... I read on a post that "It’s true that the ancient Celts of Ireland and Britain celebrated a minor festival on Oct. 31 — as they did on the last day of most other months of the year. However, Halloween falls on the last day of October because the Feast of All Saints or "All Hallows" paragraph taken from https://www.crossroadsinitiative.com/library_article/784/Truth_about_Halloween.html
Can't you see the deceiving message? "Minor" celebration...by the Ancient Celts... at the End of Month? First off. It was no MINOR celebration!!! It was Always a Major one!!! "at the end of the month" celebrated by the Ancient Celts? Say what??? the ancient world did NOT have the calendars we have today. It was ALL based on the MOON cycles which is 28 days!!! So NO Halloween was not an October 31st holiday and yes the Catholic Pope changed the All Saint's day from May 13th to October 31st. yet that IS NO the origin. The origin was what the Ancient Celts celebrated. The Unity with the dead and worshiping the devil. Period, End Game, Just Real Life!!!
I would also
If you truly believe that Jesus Christ died for our sins, do you really think that he would send a CHILD to hell for participating in class parties? And its funny how most of you are hiding behind anonymous...
Here is my problem with your statement. You are saying that Christians are judgmental, while being judgmental yourself. I don't agree with the message this lady is saying, because I believe that God is in our hearts at all times. If you dress up for evil reasons then that is where evil resides. If you dress up to have fun, and be a kid then that is all it is...fun.
I absolutely agree and I find it disturbing that the masses and many Christians cannot see the evil and darkness of this holiday and think it is "harmless". Not to mention the commercialization, marketing, and unnecessary gluttony and spending that comes with it. We explain to our kids why we do not celebrate and so far they've definitely not missed anything, on the other hand - we gain a day to spend together as a family and celebrate light. We do not actually celebrate any of the pagan holidays (which includes Christmas, with pagan origins). We believe as new creatures in Christ we are to celebrate every day we are given life, we do not set aside any days to follow the world's traditions. (PS: It's amazing how much money people spend on holidays, when there are people in this world that need the help much more.)
Disney owns 60%of the porn industry as well.
Best part, we aren't alone. It's nice that Jesus shows himself to his children and doesn't let them go astray. Keep fighting, the life of jesus is ultimately better than the world.
Yes Christmas and Easter have pagan origins just as much as Halloween. The holidays commanded by God to celebrate are the Jewish holidays found in the old testament.
God never makes any meaning for the day of Oct 31st, but people do. Pagans could make Oct 31st as a day sounds so evil, so why couldn't Christians dress up and giving/sharing candies, fun and laughters on the same Oct 31st as a day to celebrate God conquered darkness?
Thank you for your wonderful post. I too do not celebrate the day. I don't pretend to be the Easter bunny or Santa either. Instead we celebrate Jesus' birthday on Christmas and open eggs that tell the story of the resurrection Easter. Even with some interesting history of these holidays I can still see the light of Christ in celebrating them. Halloween, however, I can't find a single spark of Christ in this day so why celebrate it? People will not understand and that is OK. Be encouraged. Your post was read and is convicting and turning hearts as God intended it too.
Christian or non Christian we are letting if not telling people of all ages it's ok to scare and threaten. It's not!
An average Halloween from what I see is scary decorations and costume (ok maybe you just use an animal costume), go to people you don't know (maybe you just visit people you do) then you threaten or lie to them. Yes it's a threat of a trick if you don't get a treat. That's blackmail. Maybe you won't actually do anything nasty. So it's a lie! I teach my children not to threaten, not to lie, not to speak to strangers and not to scare people.
Thanks you for this wonderful enlightening post. We are part of an expat community and find it very challenging each year to be the ones swimming stream up. The narrow road is not always an easy one but the pleasing God by being obedient is so rewarding. I will have my teenage son read this today, you have perfectly captured the essence of why we should not conform with this world. God bless you, Annari (Saudi Arabia)
Amen, amen and amen!!!!!!!!!!! Well-said!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)
Wow! I'm amazed at how many agree with your comments and then go on to say that they feel it is ok to dress their kids in cute costumes and ask strangers for candy. There's a huge difference between not being able to avoid darkness and finding ways to participate in that darkness!
If someone wants a holiday for dressing up, why not choose Purim, a Jewish holiday celebrating the victory God gave over Haman in Persia. Because nothing was as it seemed in the palace at that time, Jews commemorate it by dressing as someone (something) other than themselves, with characters from the story of Esther being most popular. However, that is not required. Plenty of cuteness is involved on all age levels. Why dress as a princess when you can be Queen Esther? What about the lordly Mordecai? Oh? A Persian soldier? Perfect! A Jewish rabbi? Excellent! At one party at my house a child even came dressed as a scroll of Scriptures!
I also grew up not celebrating halloween, I also grew up without Christmas or Easter, as they are holidays just as pagan as halloween. I also grew up keeping the Sabbath and the Holy Days, but I no longer do, well I don't keep anything really because even the people in my church I grew up in think they are holier than thou and all that jazz. I have not met many Christians of any denomination that truly exemplify what a Christian should be, and that's Christ like. It's a little cliche nowadays but the basic message of the NT is WWJD? That's what Christians should be asking themselves. Guess what Jesus wouldn't celebrate christmas or Easter, he wouldn't care that Christians "took back" these holidays for him, even today Christmas is filled decorations that come from the original pagan traditions, such as the christmas tree, mistletoe, holly, the yule log, which I realize isn't widely used any more. Even the day that it is on Dec 25 is still the original day saturnalia festivals were celebrated. I find it even more crazy that Christians celebrate these holidays because it's not like the history is hidden. Look up christmas in any encyclopedia and it gives the true origins of the day. I'll warn you though if you have kids and stop celebrating all these days your kids will probably become bullied and chastised, especially if you live in a small town. I was called devil worshipper and all sorts of things for not keeping these days even though everything my family kept was in scripture and mainstream Christian holidays are not. If my main point got lost somewhere in this jumble of emotions it's this, if you're going to try and preach to others why it's wrong to celebrate a day like this, you better be strong enough to look at days like christmas and easter with the same conviction because they are NO different than halloween except the Roman Catholic Church slapped a bunch of Christian symbols and ideas on it to make the transition to Christianity easier for their pagan citizenry when Constantine converted the Roman Empire to Christianity so long ago. Jesus' apostles kept the Sabbath and the Holy Days, EVEN AFTER his death. It wasn't out of respect for him it was because Jesus kept them, and it wasn't because Jesus was born a Jew, when did Jesus ever do anything that wasn't commanded by the Lord, he kept the Sabbath and the Holy Days because he knew it was what his heavenly father wanted.
Nicely said!! Here is a similar post that my husband and I Wrote! http://www.largefamiliesonpurpose.com/2012/09/happy-halloween.html
LOVE THIS!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SHARING..
you ARE awesome. <3
As Christians we should use the life of Jesus as an example. We need to look at what was considered expectable to God. Being the light does not give room for participating in anything dark. Read through the book of 1 Kings, 2 kings and Judges and you will see over and over again that it is stated that the people continued to participate in pagan traditions which were not acceptable to God. It is very clear in the Bible what is asked of us. It all comes down to being willing to turn away from these things and committing to living your life in a way that glorifies God. The Israelites didn't want to give up their pagan traditions either but it was commended by God and when they refused to listen evil came into their lives. I don't write this to offend anyone. Just read the Bible for yourself.
If you find Halloween to be displeasing to God because it was made to celebrate more sinister things, then stop celebrating Christmas, a pagan holiday, Birthdays, pagan origin, and even Easter! If Christians decide to take their kids trick or treating but make sure they know that the point is to dress up and have fun and eat sweets, not to get into the evil things surrounding it, then what's wrong with that? I'm betting you celebrate the other holidays and why are they okay? Because they aren't evil? But you are doing wrong celebrating them because it's based off of a different religion. And Jesus was born in the spring and not at Christmas time anyways. So if you do celebrate those holidays then congrats on being hypocritical with your argument.
We just use the innocent costumes and go to trunk or treats. I know the scary stuff can be a concern but otherwise I don't see the difference between celebrating Halloween or Christmas etc.
We also do not celebrate this holiday. We are Muslims though, not Christian. There are other faiths beyond Christianity that also do not believe in celebrating this holiday for the same/similar reasons which you have shared. It is hard to be different and stand up for what you believe at times.
I'm so sorry you have received so many hurtful comments. I completely agree with your post. This is such a sensitive topic, I am just finding this out myself. God bless.
Thank you for this post. I get a ton of opposing views from others within the Christian community who use ministry and community outreach as a reason participate in All Hallows Eve. I want to beat my head off a wall. Our children are not evangelistic tools. We are to be raising them up in the way that they should go and equipping them for the world....to stand apart and actually be a light. Instead, so many people miss that first ever important mandate as parents. Thank you for standing up and standing out. And thank you for teaching your own children what it is to stand apart. And thank you for walking into this lion's den yourself. As one other mother who is doing the same, I understand your desire to help others understand your own heart in this.
I understand that it is a worldly, pagan holiday. But I am afraid if we did away with all pagan originated holiday traditions (such as trick or treating) then we would also have to do away with the Christmas tree.
Not having evergreen trees, the ancient Egyptians considered the palm tree to symbolize resurrection. They decorated their homes with its branches during the winter solstice.
bullet "The first decorating of an evergreen tree began with the heathen Greeks and their worship of their god Adonia, who allegedly was brought back to life by the serpent Aessulapius after having been slain." 5
bullet The ancient Pagan Romans decorated their "trees with bits of metal and replicas of their god, Bacchus [a fertility god]. They also placed 12 candles on the tree in honor of their sun god" 2 Their mid-winter festival of Saturnalia started on DEC-17 and often lasted until a few days after the Solstice.
bullet In Northern Europe, the ancient Germanic people tied fruit and attached candles to evergreen tree branches, in honor of their god Woden. Trees were viewed as symbolizing eternal life. This is the deity after which Wednesday (Wodensday) was named. The trees joined holly, mistletoe, the wassail bowl and the Yule log as symbols of the season. All predated Christianity.
For those who celebrate Christmas but against Halloween (I guess the author is one of those), please stop saying that Christmas has a beautiful meaning behind and Halloween doesn't. Pagan is pagan. There is no such things of godly pagan and ungodly pagan. I have no objection on those Christian parents don't let kids do trick-a-treating. Just feel upset why they have to persuade everyone that trick-a-treating is a evil kind of stuff.
You're absolutely right! It isn't a Christian holiday. :)
Wow there are a lot of comments here. I studied Qumran Calendar (biblical calendar before
Christ) a bit and found out the astronomy patterns. I use this calendar instead of gregorian calendar to figure out alternative traditions and memories as needed. The Jewish traditions such as FEAST of TABERNACLES is a great way to feel loved at this time of year.
We as Christians are not called to purposefully expose our children to evil in this world. The imagination in man's heart is wicked.
We can be a light in the world by NOT dressing up our children and just going about the day as if it is an average day. Carry around a few gospel tracts about the origins of the holiday with bible verses and pass them out. Receive no such thing as "candy" cause that is an idol which the spiritually weak have adapted into their body.
I am ashamed of the lukewarm Christians (and some others who think we judge others) that post negatively to these decisions that you are making. No man is perfect or can be perfect except through Christ.
Really as Christians we are to be SHADRACK, MESHAK and ABEDNEGO.......
Re-read the story. Any and all holiday traditions are emulations or imitations of the truth of God's word the HOLY BIBLE.
Do not bow to the idols or ever encourage our children to do that.
christ knows how to approach this issue appropriately.
"it is better for a mill-stone to be hung around a person's neck than to put a stumbling block before a child."
Apparently some girls/boys were raped and murdered.....AND STILL ARE in this wicked holiday.
Good job at getting these wonderful references to show what God really wants from us. Praise God that he has given us his word to lead and guide us back to him !
Raping and murdering happen everyday, everywhere, and every occasion...
AMEN!! We are not on this earth to fit in or be accepted by all. Your children will not die if you dont let them participate in the activities. Why do people idolize their children soo much and worry about hurting their feeling or being different. Jesus was different and thats how we are supposed to be.
I love your honesty and I admire your willingness to stand. I agree wholeheartedly with what you said and I too find no pleasure in this ridiculous past-time.
I also cannot bring myself to watch TV shows like the Walking Dead simply because of how I have matured in my beliefs.
I am a young adult and I have Christian friends who do not feel the same way and I am so happy to be the odd one out yet again :D Still living a testimony by not conforming on that position.
Great article. Thank you for all the biblical references. It still amazes me that powwow see Christians add being judgemental. We are not the ones judging, The Word is. We are only taking the massage and delivering it. I strongly believe that the reason, at least one of them, that they get defensive is because The Word is convicting them and they don't like that feeling. We must honor The Word, that which became flesh (John 1:1-14).
Sorry for typo. Still having difficulties with using phone as a way to make comments. Small keys.
Wow, some of you guys must live in some seriously messed up and evil communities. I would suggest moving if all you see is evil while out trick or treating.
In my town there was nothing but nice kids running around in cute costumes. The kids were polite when they knocked on the door and excited when we gave them treats.
I had the opportunity to chat and laugh with some neighbors I hadn't seen in a while and I even met some new ones. All in all it was a pleasant evening.
There was no evil witchcraft, cat sacrifices or devil worshiping that I could see... Just a bunch of neighbors being generous and a lot of kids having a fun time.
And the best part was that the judgmental, better-than-thou's were nowhere to be found. We were able to relax without their gloom and doom presence. Heard they had all gone to a pool party or a church basement to celebrate their not celebrating the day.
Part of the letter mentioned the family visiting the pumpkin patch after reluctance in believing the celebration of Halloween. Why bother going there?
Probably shouldn't celebrate Christmas or Easter either.
Your child will resent this later on in life. It seems wrong outcast your kid like that. Oh well to each their own. Therapy will be needed.
Well said.
I have a site that can answer your questions from the Bible. All questions have Bible based answers. Such as: what happens to us when we die, will we ever see our dead loved ones again, should we fear the dead, what is God's Kingdom, will there ever be peace on Earth, holidays, how to have a happy family life, and many more. I encourage everyone to give it a look and see what the Bible has to say about your questions.
Www.jw.org
You will be glad you did.
Fantastic article... satan is a deceiver and has done a wonderful job with Christians who see no wrong in Halloween. A lady here posted, we are to be the light in the darkness.. yes that is right but not partakers of the darkness to be the light. How will anyone know you shine for something different if you cover it up. Many wonder "what is happening in our world" but yet WE encourage it through "innocent" activities like this. I truly believe that Halloween is satans high holy day and that all who partake of it in any way ... Isaiah 5:20, woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter". If you have any concerns with this text, please take them up with God as He is the one who said it first... I am only repeating it to you. :)
A couple of people have questioned why this family went to the pumpkin patch, implying that this is hypocritical in light of the blogger's statement against Halloween.
Did you know that people buy pumpkins for eating? Pumpkins aren't exclusively used for making jack-o'lanterns.
I appreciated this blog post. I agree. My children are grown now. We didn't celebrate Halloween and they never resented it as children and they still don't.
It's interesting that how so many commenters said the blogger was being judgmental. Can you not see that the post was not in the least judgmental? She was only expressing her personal opinion. I felt that her tone was kind and thoughtful. One person commented on how hate-filled her post was. Seriously??? Maybe some of you need a good reading comprehension class.
http://wildhunt.org/2014/10/blessed-samhain-4.html#sthash.2iJFGIKL
I agree with your beliefs as I am a Christian. An acquaintance practices Wicca and had this posted on her page.
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