Why Do We Celebrate Halloween?
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Since I was brought up in a family that has never celebrated Halloween, I have always wondered why do we (as a culture) in the United States celebrate Halloween? What is the whole reason behind dressing up in silly costumes and going trick-or-treating? Should Christians celebrate Halloween? What exactly is it that we are celebrating and what is the reasoning or history behind it?
I'm sure some will agree with me and some won't, but just like many of the other holidays that have lost their meaning, I think Halloween too has been added as an over-rated "holiday" and celebrated for the wrong reasons. It may have to do with my religious beliefs, but I never quite understood all the commotion and chaos behind Halloween.
To me, Halloween has always been known as "the devil's holiday" - and I have never celebrated it in any way, shape, or form. No, I didn't trick-or-treat, which I can admit, as a child was a bummer sometimes. But I never really felt like I missed out on anything. The only thing I ever felt I missed out on was all the candy, and my mom always waited until the day after Halloween when all the candy went on sale and bought us tons of candy anyway! I mean, that's what Halloween is all about is the candy and the costumes, right?!
Now that I am older, and understand a little more, I have the desire to want to know - what is the real meaning behind this holiday? (I hate even calling it a holiday) I don't get it - just like I'm sure those that celebrate it don't get why I don't celebrate it.
How Do You Celebrate Halloween?
The History of Halloween
- Halloween History
History of Halloween. From Halloween's origins to the present celebration of Halloween. - The History of Halloween - The History Channel
Learn about the history of Halloween including information on jack o lanterns, Halloween vampires and superstitions from Halloween night all on History.com.
The History of Halloween
Halloween is a festival that takes place in the U.S. on October 31st. Halloween developed from ancient new year festivals and festivals of the dead. In the 800's A.C., the church established All Saints' Day on November 1st so that people could continue to celebrate a festival they had before becoming Christians. The Mass that was said on All Saints' Day was called Allhallowmas, which is how the evening before All Saints' Day became known as All Hallow e'en, or Halloween.
The Celtic festival of Samhain is believed to be the source of present-day Halloween celebration. The Celts lived well over 2,000 years ago and their new year began on November 1st. They usually celebrated a festival the previous evening which honored Samhain, the Celtic lord of death. It marked the beginning of a new season of cold, darkness, and death.
On the evening of the festival, the Druids, who were the priests and teachers of the Celts, created bonfires and burned animals, crops, and possibly even humans as sacrifices. During this celebration, people sometimes wore costumes mad of animal heads and skins and sometimes told fortunes about the coming year by examining the remnants of the animals that had been sacrificed.
Then in about 43 A.C., the Romans conquered the Celts and combined two of their autumn festivals with the Celts festival of Samhain. One of the festivals, Feralia, was held in late October to honor the dead.
Even after the Celts became Christians, many of their festivals survived. Around this time the church established All Saints' Day on November 1st and made the old pagan customs part of this Christian holy day.
Halloween History
Halloween in the United States
Many early American settlers came from England or other Celtic regions and they brought many of their various customs with them. However, because of the strict religious beliefs of many of the other settlers, Halloween celebrations did not become popular until later in the 1800's when a lot of immigrants arrived from Scotland and Ireland.
During the mid 1900's, Halloween pranks, which were at one time harmless, became rowdy and destructive. To make it safer, towns and cities began bribing kids with treats to help keep them out of trouble. This is how "trick-or-treat" was born and adopted along with other popular Halloween customs such as wearing costumes, carving pumpkins into Jack O' Lanterns, fortune telling, and bobbing for apples. Ghosts and witches remained symbols of Halloween because people once believed that ghosts roamed the earth and witches gathered on October 31st to celebrate the devil.
Halloween Origins
Bible Answers from Amazing Facts
- Should Christians Celebrate Halloween? Inside Report
Most people see nothing wrong with the activities of Halloween. They consider Halloween festivities to be a harmless way for their children to have an evening of "fantasy and fun." - How do you explain to kids why they shouldn't take part in Halloween?
"I mean, how do you explain to your kids with their faces pressed up against the window watching the neighborhood kids trick or treating and getting candy from their parents – how do you explain to them why they’re not able to participate in a positi
Should Christians Celebrate Halloween?
Now, I am in no way close to perfect. I mean no one is. But I could never really understand how or why someone who calls themselves a Christian celebrates Halloween! It's not my place to judge - that's God's job, and he will do that on Judgement Day. Yet, I find it quite "weird" that so many Christians actually celebrate this "devil's holiday."
The worst part is when I've asked a few of them why they celebrate it the reply is usually something along the lines of - "What's the big deal? The kids are just having fun, dressing up in costumes and getting candy. Plus, I did it, and there's nothing wrong with me."
LOL! I bet those parents are the same ones who tell their kids, if so and so jumped off a bridge, you shouldn't do it - or however that saying goes. Don't they understand that they are not setting an example for their children? They are allowing them to think it's ok to do what everyone else does. And wost of all, do they not understand the symbolism behind this holiday?
I would have to guess that's what it is. Most people are just ignorant to what Halloween really represents or stands for because it has been so twisted and distorted into a celebration. Yes, it has been around in history for years, but that doesn't make it right.
Should Christians celebrate Halloween?
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Comments
Sorry me again. Just found out another interesting fact after more research. It was Pope Greggory III who made October 31st officially Halloween (All Hallows Eve) in the 18th Century, claiming it for the Christians, after he moved All Saints Day to November 1st. The fact that it was the Pope who made Halloween an official holiday for Christians is more than enough reasurrance that celebrating Halloween is not a sin for me. Is it enough for you?
I cannot figure how anyone could make the argument that halloween is a good "holiday". The simple truth is that Halloween is a very wicked celebration, celebrating very wicked things. Such as, haunted houses, death, graveyards, murder, torture, pure sadism in some instances, cruelty, witchcraft, etc. etc. the list goes on and on. But who among us, even those of us who have once thought the holiday to be fun, could actualy argue that Halloween is good? I am curious as to why we find pleasure in graveyards, vampires, sadistic torture, and murder etc, that sums up the entire so called "holiday"? What is it about such distorted and perverted subjects that we are so attracted to them? Is it our desire for that which is forbidden that has us emulating such perversion?"
Mike,
Thanks for your comments. It's actually funny because I too don't understand how you, being a devote christian, can think that celebrating Halloween is good. I do understand your argument but what I believe is that we as a people and nation have become completely desensitized.
In response to some of your comments:
If a believer in God, why feel the need to hide from evil spirits? You should know you are protected.
Bobbing for apples stems from the worship of a goddess and by celebrating it you are agreeing with idolization - a believer should know their is only one God.
Also, the Pope is affiliated with catholicism, and just because Halloween is "endorsed" by a Pope does not reassure me.
I still don't believe Halloween should be celebrated in the way that it is. Maybe a day as spiritual warfare against the devil, but no other.
I agree with Mike here. This festival was celebrated long before Christianity and many of the customs have been incorporated into Christian beliefs across Europe over the ages. The Wiccan (so called witches) culture celebrated 'Halloween' or at least a festival on the 31st October and had nothing to do with the Devil. They don't even have that concept in their beliefs. Their festivals were to mark the year and to note the changing seasons - a celebration of nature. It marks when the god of nature departs and the goddess is alone. The 'death' of vegetation, the dark nights ect which ultimately gives rebirth in the spring. All the Wiccan celebrations were tied closely to nature and the cycle of life, death and rebirth. Similar beliefs are found across the world all linked to the harmony of the seasons. I can't see how that is bad. As for whether Christians should celebrate is up to the individual as I see it, but it was not supposed to be a celebration based on evil or devil worship.
I would like to comment on Mike's response to the blog. I have never gotten involved in anything involving speaking out online but I felt compelled to do so.
There's Overwhelming history evidence that the Catholic Church allowed paganism inside of God's Church to allow the 'Church' to grow, they admit this fact.
Because Halloween is older than the birth of Christ has no bearing on how the Christian should view it. In the Bible, God's people were told many times drive to out the inhabitants of the land that were there before them and had practice occultic religions older than theirs. It was because they did not serve God that they were driven out. I would strongly suggest going to the Lord and giving him the final say so on how you should lead your family on this matter. You are the high Priest of your home and you cannot afford to give something this important over to human reasoning.
Excuse my syntax errors in my last blog, but I was just trying to convey to Mike that Christ and the Bible alone should be his standard and rule for measuring whether he is doing what Christ requires. There are many pit falls out there! Just remember all divination, witchcraft, familiar spirit contact, giving homage to occultic days past or present whether it be for good or for evil are controlled by demonic spirits that are very deceptive!!! Please study the Holy Bible on this.
As I said before, you are the High Priest of your home and you cannot afford to give something this important over to human reasoning, you and you family Mike should go in earnest prayer to God about this.
I THINK THAT NOBODY SHOULDN'T CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN, BECAUSE THAT DATE HAS BEEN SET ASIDE AND CALLED THE DEVIL BIRTHDAY. I ALSO FILL THAT IF YOU WORSHIP THE DEVIL THAT YOU WILL ALSO HAVE YOUR PART IN THE LAKE OF FIRE. THE BIBLE SAYS THAT HE THAT KNOWEST AND DO IT NOT IS SIN. ALL SINNER WILL GO TO HELL.
Jen17 - thank you for your comment. All I can think of is, read your Bible. In the first 5 chapters alone (see Deuteronomy) read what it says about Pagan gods. I understand your and other arguments in regards to celebrating the change of seasons. But it's not being celebrated in the right ways or for the right reasons.
"All the WICCAN celebrations were tied closely to nature and the cycle of life, death and rebirth." You say it yourself and see nothing wrong with it...how?
Shon3460 - thanks for commenting and acting on being compelled to do so. It's nice to see there are some out there who have not been fooled. It says people perish from lack of knowledge, it's just sad to see when they are presented with the knowledge and they still choose not to obey. It's probably because they have not really READ what the Bible says, or, it's their soil.
Melody - thank you also for your comments. Yes, if you idolize or participate in worship of any god besides God, you will have to answer for it on Judgement Day.
That's more or less what the purpose was of this Hub. To help people see and understand. I want people to not just read the content I wrote, but also watch the videos and follow the other links. There's even scripture reference for those who want to see it in the Bible Answers box.
As for me and my family, we will not celebrate it. I only planted the seed. The rest is up to the soil... if you truly do believe that you're wrong, you need to repent and ask for forgiveness and it will be forgotten.
Crazy woman get off and stay off
Just a quick one, why after visiting this or any other halloween site do some people fail to recognise the true meening of hallowe'en and why we celebrate it???? People need to do their research and learn more. I wholeheartdly agree with mike, Hallowe'en is a day when the barrier bewteen life and death is thin so dressing up as ghouls etc stops us being recognised by the evil spirits etc so basically hallowe'en is day where we try and keep ourselfs safe. I t was most certainly celebrated long before christs birth and is not an origianal amreican festival but in fact a celtic festival, however when the celts moved to america they took their cutoms with them and hallowe'e as a festival grew bigger!!!! I am sure as well the christ would understand those who celebrated hallowe'en for IT IS NOT A CELEBRATION OF THE DEVILS BIRTHDAY BUT INFACT QUITE THE OPOSITE.
what people dont understand should do REASERACH!!!!!!!
OH QUICK NOTE FOR ALL YOU HALLOWE'EN LOVERS IF YOU SEE A SPIDER ON HALLOWE'EN IT IS SUPPOSIDLY THE SPIRIT OF A LOVED ONE, WATCHING OVER YOU.
ALL THAT REMAINS FOR ME TO SAY IS
HAPPY HALLOWEEN, HAVE FUN, STAY SAFE AND GO AND SOME SPOOKING!!!!!!!!!!!!
MMMMWAHHAHAHAHA
I think we are all missing the point here. We are on Earth not to celebrate any holidays we are here to celebrate what our Lord Jesus Christ has done for us, and should take every opportunity to do so. At our church we have a Fall Festival for the kids. We have games, candy and preach the word of God. The purpose behind the festival is to let people of our community know that if they are going out they can bring their families to a safe and friendly environment to hear about God's love. We are to be in the world and not of the world. What we will do is take advantage of a night when we know other families are looking for somewhere to go and create an atmosphere that is loving and encouraging. God wants us to seek every opportunity to minister to others. Even on Halloween! I know God wants us out their doing his work not shut in our houses fearing we may be sinning. I know God and understand his purpose for my life. God knows me and understads my desire is to do his will.
Watertx75 - thanks for your comment. I used to attend a few fall festivals at our church also when I was little. I think it's a good idea for the most part. I love how it shares the ministry but I have some of my own issues with churches and church programs that I plan on discussing soon in a new Hub.
It's even more disheartening to me when "chrisitans" don't see that the celebration is wrong. I think so many people are missing the point and it's really sad. And I'm not trying to condemn christians - at all. That's not my goal. I walk in love and forgiveness no matter what your sin - they're all equal in God's eyes so why not mine? Hey, I sin!
I'm not saying it's the ultimate sin to celebrate Halloween - but what bothers me is so many don't realize it's idolization and so many other things, which God detests.
And you're right, God does want us to share his Word. Many don't realize that OBEDIENCE is One of His spiritual laws to prosperity. I learned so much about that and You can learn more too about it from Dani Johnson if you want to. http://www.clickaudit.com/goto/?131720
I'm going to be writting another Hub on Christmas celebrations soon that I'm sure will ruffle a lot of feathers...
Double negatives not allowed ...I was bored and read bout half this blog. I liked Mike's first blog. I also liked picking up all those facts and different views on everything.
what r u on something belief713 or r u a guy cause u could fool me and like i said u need to stay off and stop telling us that something we belive in is wrong.So do your self and stay of the computer because u r preching a lot of nonesense and what u r trying do is scare us in to beliveing that celebrating halloween is a sin well i guess i'm in trouble.
holloweenhead08 - not sure what you mean by double negatives... thanks for checking out all the different information, I also found it interesting.
chrissy - I'm not on anything. how about you? And no i'm not a guy, I'm a female. I have a right to believe what I do just like you do. And I have a right to voice my opinion. I have no need to stay off the computer. I'm sorry you feel like that but if you don't like what I write, don't read it. YOU keep coming back! I come back because I get email notifications when someone comments on my Hubs. And it's only common courtesy for me to respond as well as a nice means of communication.
I'm not preaching nonsense. There's obviosuly some who agree with me and some who agree with you so how wrong can I be? I'm delivering information I've found. It's up to you what you choose to do with the info - believe it or not, celebrate or not. It doesn't make me or break me. If you want to celebrate Halloween that's your decision. I don't feel like it's the right decision, but it's not my life. I would like to see more people not participate in it though. I have lots of friends and family who celebrate Halloween, I just don't participate with them.
If you feel strongly in your belief to celebrate Halloween and you feel as though you have viable facts to back it up, then ok. I'm not trying to scare you - if you feel that way did you ever think it may be conviction? Trust me I'm not a super religious person. I don't push my thoughts or beliefs on anyone - just share what I know. Like I said previously, I can't do anything more than that. And to say whether or not you are in trouble, I'm not sure, I'm not God, only He knows.
I agree with you on ur last comment but not all of it people have the right to vocie their comments to and they r giving u their thought to but trying to scare then with the bible and it hisory is probaly not the best way to do it I mean Halloween has changed alot sice it came to be sure we dress like witches ect... but some kids dress like angles and princess.they r just dressing up like they usely don't get to dress up as on a avrege every day.
hahaha belief713 is crazy! hunny, you're way too serious about the Good Lord. i hate people like you. just because we don't agree with the rules in your religion doesn't make you better than us. i also think you get off the Internet. it's a scary place for annoying bitchez like you. peaaaace :)
noname - you're right people do have rights to voice their comments and I appreciate all of them and all the different views. I'm sorry people feel like I'm trying to "scare" them because that's not at all what I'm trying to do.
I completely understand your argument of kids wanting to dress up. I have kids and I also was a kid and that aspect of Halloween made it interesting and fun looking! Why not address that issue with a day to dress up or something silly like that. Why does it have to be ritualistic or in celebration of dead, spirits, pagan practices, etc? It's great for kids to be able to dress up. It's great for their imagination and more. I just don't agree with it in the way that's it done that's all.
natalie - sweety, I'm not crazy, but yes I am serious about the Lord. Sorry you feel that way but I bet if you knew me in person you wouldn't hate me because I accept everyone for who they are. I'm not "casting" you or anyone out because you celebrate Halloween. I just choose not to because of what I believe whereas you choose to because of what you believe. I don't think I'm better than anyone - I too have flaws.
LOL - I too don't agree with many of the rules in Christianity - AT ALL. And I will be addressing some of them in the future. I don't care too much for the word "religion" either. I prefer I believe in God and what the Bible says.
I think everyone should selabrate haloween!
for the christians who oppose having halloween, i thought i would point out that when halloween 1st originated, it had nothing to do with the devil, but in fact was a day set aside to morn and pray for the deceased. this does not sound harmful or demonic to me.
and, if celebrating halloween is a sin, which is what you guys are saying, then why do the churches have other alternatives for the holiday? such as trunk or treat, and differant things of that sort?
@ holt - I appreciate your opinion, thanks. Have you read/watched (or chose to review what you wanted) all of the information/resources I included in this Hub as a whole? Halloween was in fact set up as a day to celebrate or mourn for the deceased, you're right. As Christians, why should we participate in such? Don't Christians believe the dead are dead (we're not reincarnated or such)? When we die, Christians believe our spirit is then in heaven or hell, right? And isn't death associated with the devil and life with God? Why then celebrate death? If our lost ones are in heaven, should we not be rejoicing? And if we believe they may have gone to hell, can we not consider some of the blood to be on our own hands? Shouldn't memories be carried on in our hearts and spirit with us everyday? Why then give honor to a day that acknowledges or praises death? We should be celebrating the life that we are given. I can go into more, but for lack of time, can't right now.
In response to why churches set up & host programs like that, here's my answer: what the enemy intends for bad, God (and the people of the church) are turning around and using for good as a ministry or way to witness to others and share the love of God. If nothing else, they may only be planting a seed. I don't oppose those programs, I've participated in them in the past as a child. I just really feel too many of us have been desensitized and allow too many things to go by as the years progress, and as Christians feel we should not partake in the celebrating of such. Doing such (I feel) is a form of idolatry, which God despises.
really after reading this whole thing i am appalled. you say that your not casting anyone out but your saying if people are christian they shouldnt celebrate halloween. i believe in god and all that but what i was taught as a child is that i am forgiven for my sins. that is what jesus died on the cross for right? You have a very biased opinion about this holiday and who knows why. you are preaching to people totally. it is ridiculous how you think you are right no matter what facts people show you. When someone dies you go to a funeral right...thats mourning a loss of someone thats what halloween was originally. and god protects us but doesnt the bible also talk about not being fooled by the devils tricks...so why not hide with a costume to make sure were safe. you can be a christian theres nothing wrong with that. but dont act like youre better than everyone...its people like you that turn others off to religion...it really truly is.
@wow...ridiculous. It's kind of hard sometimes expressing yourself or views in writting without being misunderstood. But yes, I will admit, I guess I am kind of biased on this topic. Sorry, but we are all entitled to our opinions or beliefs. I haven't lashed out at anyone only stated what I believed in, I don't feel there's anything wrong with that. I'm not preaching just fighting for something I believe in. I'm sure if I wrote on abortion I would get differing opinions on that as well. I also am not a huge fan of celebrating Christmas and am sure I would also cause an uproar if I wrote about that. And if I wasn't interested in hearing other views I would simply close the comments section, but I think it's very interesting to read what others think or feel on the topic. So, I don't see how I am casting anyone out. I just don't believe the holiday should be celebrated. You obviously do and will most likely continue to do so, which is fine. And if I knew you personally I wouldn't cast you out or stop associating with you because you did it. That would be one thing I just wouldn't participate in with you (and no I wouldn't harp on you about it).
You are right, you are forgiven for your sins. As far as God protecting us, the God I believe in, I don't need to hide from any tricks of the devil, I prefer to fight them head on without hiding. As Christians we are all equipped with the gifts of the Spirit and have the authority to exercise them at any time - not just a priest or CEO church figure. So I don't see the need for a costume to hide from any evil.
I understand what some are saying in that they don't celebrate the day because they are celebrating or worshiping the devil. I don't believe most are celebrating it intentionally for that reason. But it's the origin or foundation behind it which was set up for celebrating - it was a Pagan holiday, regardless of how you look at it. If you watch the videos you will see it originated as a day to celebrate the dead walking the earth and "drive back the evil spirits." I don't understand how some view this as a good thing. The only dead spirits I know of that are not at rest and wandering are evil ones - the rest are in Heaven.
I don't think I act like I'm better than anyone and it does bother me to some degree when others say that, especially when you don't me - again, just stating what I believe in & I guess I'm just different and am ok with that. I have and will continue to make many mistakes and sins, although not proud of it, but that's part of the walk of life. I was just sharing my research and experience and wish people would take it as such and not name call or attack my reasons for not celebrating the holiday.
I too am personally turned off to "religion" myself - one of the definitions of religion is bondage... but that's a whole other topic.
Thanks for your comment.
I came acoss this site when I was trying to get info on the who, what, when, where, and whys of Halloween. I started out thinking that I was going to get some really good info. Then I started to read the comments everyone was making. I also feel that we have a right to say what we feel. That is human nature and something most Americans believe to be a given right. Looking back on how the holiday started or who started it is some what erelavent. You made me think that your not so sure of your chistianity either. I don't think someone that is so wishy washy in there Religious veiws should talk about wanting to bring more people to your side. Which is cult like, stop celebrating Halloween, be like me. Someone who believes in God, but how much no one knows. I think you wish you could celebrate something. You just got so wrapped up in what you think is bad about it. You can't see what joy it brings to people. Halloween brings friends and family together. We laugh and play with are kids and enjoy going door to door catching up with neighbours. Sorry for the weirdos out there that try to make it something evil. Not everyone goes there. I believe in God, I know that he will forgive my sins. I also think that if you celebrate Halloween and your thnking of it as a celebration then it can't be evil. Good to know your view and now you know mine. I think that some of the other people that posted have helped you see a more modern veiw. Most people just want to have fun. I don't think God would condemn you for that.
@doing a report - in your comment I see a lot of I thinks, but you say I don't know where I am in my faith. Actually, I do and don't feel as though I'm "wishy washy", or else I wouldn't have even attempted to tackle this subject. Sorry if I'm not one of the other websites out there joining in the celebration of the holiday and just as you have your rights to believe its ok and continue to celebrate it, I have mine to also NOT. As you can see from the comments, I'm the one who's usually being name called, attacked and judged because of my beliefs, it's not the other way around.
I've not condemned any, just stated what I feel to be fact. Sin is sin, one isn't worse than another. And sometimes our lack of knowledge allows us to participate in activities that we don't even know are sinful.
I believe in freedom of speech just as much as the next man, or else, once again, I would have simply closed the comments by now. But you don't know anything else about me or where I come from or what my beliefs are other than ONE viewpoint I have about a subject on a small page on the web, so how can you judge my beliefs? I never said once in my comments anyone HAD to stop celebrating, I just don't personally feel it should be celebrated and I am entitled to that just as you are entitled to your beliefs. I do celebrate things like my birthday and many other occasions and holidays, I just think many are over rated and celebrated for the wrong reasons. I actually do see the joy it brings to others and it's great that you can get family and friends together and have fun with the kids, I see the good in that, but I don't think it should be the only excuse to do so and let's face it, in today's busy here and there society, most (not all) lack family time and use days like Halloween and Thanksgiving and Christmas to try to fill that void.
I'm sorry you feel there isn't really good info here, because there actually is, I did this as a report and all of the research behind it is FACT based with a little bit of opinion thrown in. I just don't understand how you can say the foundations of the holiday are irrelevant - yet the foundations of how we came to America are not? History is history and it's part of what makes us who and what we are today.
I know not everyone goes to the evil side of it, and I'm not saying all do - your right, most don't, and that's where I'm misunderstood. I feel as though some of you think I look at all of you like your evil because you participate and that's not the case at all.
I'm not cult like at all. I don't try to make people do what I do or feel how I feel - we were granted free will for that.
Thanks for your comment.
Recently I was talking to my neighbor who is from Mexico. Evidently they don"t celebrate Halloween instead they celebrate "Dias de Muertas" or "Day of the Dead". However all that put aside he asked me what the real reason was to celebrating Halloween. And the only thing I truthfully could tell him is "I dont know?" I was always told by my school teachers That it was to celebrate the season of harvest. I've read practicaly every post on this article and they are all quite interesting some I agree with others I dont. One thing I will say is that I dont believe in the blogs about hiding from ghouls and devils and all that crap. I agree with the blog about if you truly believe in God you dont have to hide from anything. He's your protector. I am in no way, shape, or form trying to be considered a holy roller. But I do believe in God. And I also want me children to be able to enjoy their childhood and if that involves letting them run around in costumes collecting candy,well I dont mind. After Halloween I dont feel any different, we are not cursed, it was just a fun relaxing evening outside having some nice fellowship with our neighbors. I must say though all these post were really interesting and I enjoyed reading them. Keep writing belief713 you definetly got people to opionate on this one. good day
I found this article while doing reasearch on Halloween. I myself grew up in a christian home where we were and still are not allowed to celebrate Halloween. I am now married and have children of my own. This is my daughter's first year in school and I don't know what to tell her about Halloween. Like I said I have never celebrated Halloween by dressing up but when I was in elementary school I remember participating in Halloween activies like the fair and pumpkin patch. As a grown up, its just another day for me, I honestly don't care for it. My dilema is do I let my daughter participate or not. Before doing research, I had no idea what the purpose of Halloween was. I was always just told that it was the devil's birthday and that Jesus did not want us to celebrate it.
I spoke to my sister in law about it and she told me that she does not allow her kids to participate and that she picks them up early that day. She talks to their teacher and doesn't even allow them to do anything that has a Halloween theme to it. Example, if the class is coloring a picture of a witch or pumpkin, they can not. I feel that this might be going too far. I don't want my daughtet to feel left out or isolated.
I've read that the holiday began with the Celtic Celebration of Samhain. Which was for the end of harvest. That for me is harmless, but when I read more into it, it said that they would do fortune-telling and that for me is not right. I'm kind of iffy about the whole dead spirts coming back to earth and stuff, but I believe in God and miracles and so I think that if there is good then there has to be evil, right?
Well, in conclusion I thinking that I'll probably just let my daughter do her school activites but I'm not going to dress her up or take her trick or treating. If anything maybe we could possibly do one of those church events (which is probably the same thing). I just feel that just the way we all debate and research the meaning of Halloween, we should to it for all holidays. Do you really know the meaning of Christmas or Easter???
And one last thing...I think we could all agree with the following article. Check it out.
http://christianity.about.com/od/holidaytips/i/bib
Wow this is soooo GAY!! who F******* cares about who celbratees HAlloween! Halloween is AWESOME! So, scary movies are the greatest things in the world , but a whole bunch of people Watch them. Halloween is just fun, its not like we are meaning to worship the devil. It's basicically just a comercial holiday. Your not really celbrating or worshiping anything ur just having fun
Also many churches even celebrate halloween. From a lot of religions. What do you have to say about that?
When I was little my mom let us as children celebrate halloween, but the was before she became aware of the meaning behind halloween. Yes she is a christian but this was never taught to her when we were younger, however knowing now the meaning of this celebrated event, I do not celebrate it, and I inform my children of the reason we don't celebrate halloween.
At first I have to say I was like some of the viewers saying that what's the big deal, it's just about getting candy. But that's what the devil wants everyone to say. He wants us just to sit down and take whatever is offered to us, and not stand for what Jesus died for. We have to as christian learn to love what God loves and hate what God hates. Does this mean for us to down everyone that has not caught on to the vision, Know it means for us to start praying, loving, and informing others of what is going on. When I look around and see all the things that we have allowed to come into our lives and our children's lives like Harry Potter, and other things I have to say, man I have not being doing a good job of standing for christ. We are allowed to walk around and say Happy Halloween, by not allowed to say Merry Christmas. What is really going on. So I think everyone should really find out the true meaning behind the whatever you do and ask yourself is this something that Jesus bleed and died for?
in my church they showed a thing that said their not askin us 2 change r ways but.... i forgot the rest. anyways if the devil is temptin us to take candy and all he's doin a really good job of it.
First, thanks for all your comments.
@erikb272 - thanks for sharing your experience with your neighbor because I think many people honestly have the same response. I understand you wanting your children to enjoy their childhood and I'm not against them having fun. I have two children myself with a third on the way, but there are so many other ways, I feel, to do it that are just as much fun, if not more, that glorify God. As I mentioned before (and a few others also touched on), we have become desensitized and allow so much to slide just because we want to "have fun."
@Claudia - there are some links I provided up above with resources on how to explain Halloween to your children should you want to explain it to them in a biblical sense and even helps on what to say. Here's one just in case... http://bit.ly/3sYABj It's a good thing that you are trying to better understand what the truth is about the holiday to better educate yourself and your daughter and I encourage you to keep doing so. Some may feel your sister-in-law is taking it to an extreme, but she is standing up for who she believes in (Christ) and setting an example that she will not allow the devil to influence her family in that way - and to me that's not a bad thing. My oldest son just started pre-school this year, so we have yet to face those challenges, I will deal with them as they come. As far as your daughter feeling left out or isolated, depending on her age, I'm sure if you sit down and go over some of the truths you've discovered with her and explain to her why you feel she shouldn't celebrate the holiday and that you are presenting the information out of love and wanting the best for her, I don't see how she would be much opposed to it. It will be good conversation for you both and for you to hear her feedback on it, but if she feels secure in what or why she isn't celebrating it based on what you share with her I don't feel you will need to worry much about her feeling left out because she will be confident in her beliefs. It would be great if you can find another activity to do that night (we used to make it a special family night or mother-daughter night and do things like go to the movies, etc) so it can still be a positive experience to her and not one of isolation. I think that has a greater impact and creates better memories than running around getting candy. And I've actually been wanting to do more research on Christmas and Easter because I was never told there was a Santa Claus or an Easter Bunny. I was always told the real meaning of both holidays which was the birth and death of Christ. So I was groomed with the biblical meaning, not the worldly one.
@Nobody - LOL, I actually used to love scary movies, but they've started to bore me (they've started to get repetitive and a little too gory to me). Actually, I agree with "live and let live" but to a certain extent. I'm not pushing what I feel on anyone, just stating my opinions and what I feel, just as you have. I understand what you are saying - most don't mean to worship or celebrate the devil, but in recent studies I've done, one thing I've learned is the devil is a lot smarter and trickier than most of us would ever think. Believe it or not you are celebrating something, you just don't realize it, which was most of the purpose of me creating this hub - to shed some light on the truth. You are right - Halloween is a commercial holiday... so is Christmas and Easter. Don't get me wrong - I love the Christmas spirit and time of year, who doesn't? But why is it that people get in that "feel good, be nice" attitude/mood a few weeks out of the year and then go on the rest of the year living their lives and not worrying about others (I'm not speaking for all, but most people live their lives revolved around themselves and in a fast pace). Also, so many overspend and have a distorted meaning of the holiday - but that's a different topic...this one is about Halloween. As far as churches celebrating Halloween, I personally don't agree with that. I understand what they are trying to do by trying to get people into the church as opposed to on the streets, but in a way I feel as though they are also conforming. That's an issue I'm very iffy on...I'm not sure whether it's a good or bad thing. I did do one of those church things as a child, but since, I personally haven't participated in anything concerning Halloween and don't plan on it. Costumes and dressing up are great for a kids imagination, but I just don't agree with the history behind the day or going around and doing the whole "trick or treat" thing.
@Kymberly - it's nice to see another person with similar views and thanks for standing up for them. With some of the comments I was getting I was starting to feel alone or like others with similar views were just afraid to comment! It's great that even though you celebrated it you are taking a stand with your children and changing things. Your mom probably didn't know any better which is probably why she let you celebrate it. You now know the truth and are exercising your right to it, which I think is a good thing. I love how you were honest in saying that you didn't see the big deal at first, but now you understand it and also much of what you said - I just wish more would see it the way we do and honestly was hoping that's what this hub would help to do.
@wats 2 u doin a research paper - I wish you could remember more of what the church said... but either way, it's not just about the devil tempting us to take candy, it's much deeper than that, people fail to realize that (or they simply don't want to). And unfortunately, you are right, he is doing a good job of blinding so many...even many that are Christians.
i think halloween is fun and good!
Ive always celebrated halloween..just recently commited to the lord:D but i never really knew why we even celebrated it.Because my family did and i grew up with it. I also know that we should ask for God's guidance on our opinions.Only he knows what s right for you!
i will now reconsider halloween...although it will be hard!
thanks!
much love..Sarah K.
I appreciate the opinions and reactions I have read here. As such, I would like to add some food-for-thought.
First, on the issue of dressing up to scare off or hide from evil spirits: If it were possible, would you want an evil spirit to actualy believe you were one of them? Let's say you are a Christian... Repelling "the devil" is a great idea. The Bible talks about turning away from and rebuking evil, but does it say anything about dressing up to trick evil spirits? The answer is, "No.", so what does that mean? Well, if the Bible is not the source of an idea that is a pretty big deal, then, for a Christian, it would be wise to research the source. That is the only way to make an educated choice rather than simply a feelings-based reaction. What does the Bible say about Satans access to us? Well, if you are a Christian, there are only two ways Satan (or his evil spirits) have access to you:
1. if God allows it
2. if you allow it (which can happen in many different ways)
If you are a Christian, you are covered by the Blood of your Christ, Jesus. That is the only thing, besides God himself, that will ever scare off or protect you from an evil spirit.
Next, on the issue of imitating "the world":
The Bible says of this world that Christians are "in it, not of it" and that Children of God should be a "peculiar people". Why then, do most Christians try to blend into the world? Could it be for a similar reason to the last topic I mentioned? Maybe they are trying to make sure the world thinks of them as one of it's own. Maybe they then feel protected from the misunderstanding, prejudice, or even wrath of the world. Think of this though; If you are no different or not much different than they are, and if you are fake....why would they ever want what you have?
Finally, on the subject of tolerance:
---a fair, objective, and permissive attitude toward those whose opinions, practices, race, religion, nationality, etc., differ from one's own; freedom from bigotry. That is how Dictionary.com defines tolerance. Why is it that when almost any religious viewpoint or opinion is made, we are told to be tolerant, but when a Chritian viewpoint or opinion is made it is widely accepted to castigate them for speaking what they believe? Why is it that practically every other major religion is given some form of honor in our modern society while Christianity is attempted to be bound and gagged? The answer is extremely important. In fact, if you seek out the truth of it and see it through, you may very well find it to be the most important question in you life. Thank you for giving me a piece of your precious time.
WOW is all I can say about some of the posts here! I cant believe that some of you have used curse words at belief713. All this person is doing is putting forth her opinion,just as some of you are doing. Dont use bad language in your response to her or anyone else.It shows bad manners.
I was raised to believe in celebrating Halloween and I was also raised to believe that it was harmless fun .It never bothered me in the least. Not until I gave my heart to God did it bother me,along with all the other things I did before.I believe that celebrating Halloween is not a good idea,but that is me and me alone. Like I said ,I was guilty of trick or treating and I helped my children to do it. I dont know and wont have anything to do with it.I feel it is worshipping the devil,in a way, and when God saved my soul and brought me from out from under all that bondage,I dont do those things no longer. Not to say some of the things I did back then are still tempting to me ,for they are. But God does give me strength to be an overcomer of those temptations.
"WOW...ridiculous said
so why not hide with a costume to make sure were safe. you can be a christian theres nothing wrong with that. but dont act like youre better than everyone...its people like you that turn others off to religion...it really truly is."
Why hide when the devil knows where you are anyway? And if a person is truly sold out to God ,then there is no need to hide. If you feel the need to hide,then maybe something is missing in your relationship with God??
People who stand up for what they believe in is not what turns others off from serving God,that is an old worn out excuse that people who want to live like the rest of the world lives makes.Nobody but the individual can make up his/her mind to either serve God or not to serve God.We can not blame others for our faults.
Mike,the only way to repel the devil is to live for God and allow Him to repel the devil for you. Dressing in a costume is not going to do it. I know,I know.The people of old times didnt have the knowledge we do and you would think we would be smarter than they were hundreds of years ago,but suffice it to say that we still do the dumb things that they did then.Celebrating Halloween is just one ,allowing our children to believe in a man who brings toys down the chimmey ,and a rabbit who brings candy to children are two more examples .They are all wrong and they all are worshipping things other than worshipping the Creator.
I believe that the real reason that people want to bind and gag the Christian is the work of the devil himself. He wants no part of God and all that God stands for. Remember, he was cast out from Heaven to go to and fro in the earth to seek those he could take control of.And from the looks of this world today,with the ban on saying prayers in school to the displaying of the Ten Commandments,he has a hold on quiet a few. I hope he dosent get a hold on you.
Very interesting posts. Thought I'd share how I, as a strong Christian, celebrate these holidays. My parents were also strong Christians, but wanted to allow me to have fun with these holidays and not be isolated, (as another post mentioned). I now have 2 children myself, and have continued these traditions with my children....
I too, am very upset that Santa Claus and the Easter bunny have replaced Christ's birth and resurrection, to some people. And of course, there is the whole Halloween, "Is it Evil?" question. Here is how I handle it with my children. (Please take note that my children are very young).
My children fully understand why we celebrate Christmas. We are celebrating the birth of Christ. It's Jesus's Birthday. Normally, on someone's birthday, we give them gifts. But what could we give to Jesus? The best gift we can give Him is to give to one another. We make it a point to give more to charity than we usually do at this time of the year...a gift to Jesus in a sense. A man named St. Nichloas wanted to do this same thing, and give to others. He gave to the poor children in his village. (This is obviously a condensed version..but you understand where I'm going with this). At Christmas, we give to one another and say it's from "Santa Claus" because, as the bible says, we should give by not letting our left hand know what our right hand is doing. (Give anonymously).
My children fully understand why we celebrate Easter, they can tell you the story of Jesus's last days and resurrection. On Good Friday, we pray and thank Him for dying for our sins. This past Good Friday, my children's school was in session to make up for a snow day. I chose to keep them home, as I feel this is the holiest day of the year. They know that Easter is a happy day when we celebrate his resurrection. Here's how I tie in the Easter bunny, so the kids can still get excited about Easter egg hunts, not be isolated, but more importantly, don't forget what we're really celebrating. Jesus's resurrection celebrates new life, and, spring is a visual aide about new life. (ie, last winter, our grass died, but now it's new and green again....look at the beautiful flowers Jesus created, just so we would have something beautiful to look at, they came back alive this spring too)! Bunnies and chicks, (and even eggs)! are symbols of new life, and Jesus wants you to celebrate new life and being born again. Look, I know this is stretching it a bit...but it keeps my kids focused on the importance of the holiday without having to lose the fun parts of finding eggs and getting candy.
And now on to Halloween....I use Halloween as a tool to remind my children that there is nothing to fear but fear itself. Ghosts, goblins, etc....they are nothing to fear. We laugh at them. We put up window clings of ghosts with smiling faces that say, "boo to you." God is always protecting us from all sides, so there is nothing to fear. I don't allow my children to wear any gorey costumes or carry axes....a rule we follow ALL year long, we don't promote violence. It's a time of year when there are all types of "scary" things around, but we aren't scared of them, because God keeps us safe. And yes, I take them trick-or-treating for candy. One year we went to a local nursing home and they trick-or-treated on all of the residents. All that did was bring smiles to everyone's face, young and old.
More importantly, if you have a close relationship with God, He knows what is in your heart and what your intentions are. I continually ask God to show me the way and to help get me back on track if I ever step off the path that He has planned for me. If I ever feel that He no longer wants me to celebrate these holidays in these ways, then I will change my traditions. But as it stands, we are praising Him on these holidays, and I think that is what is important. I know that many people get lost in the pagan and commercialized versions of these holidays, and that is sad. But again, if your relationship with Him is strong, none of that matters.
I'm a big believer in turning a not so great thing into a good thing.
well this site dosn't really explain "why we celebrate halloween" at all!!!! YOU JUST WAISTED 10 MINUTES OF MY TIME
Compromisse..I totatlly agree with you, i do the same in my house, I DO BELIEVE THAT IS HOW YOU TAKE ON THE "HOLIDAY" THAT IS HOW IT IS. if you take it with evil, then that's what you'll get..
Traditions of men vs God's actual thoughts? How many of us can actually sit here and say that apart from our own "thoughts" or our own "opinions," that it's right to do anything?
Is it possible that the yearly holidays, festivals and celebrations have become so embedded in our lives that the thought of giving them up is discarded so fast that we seriously continue on in our lives without thinking, "hmmm maybe there's a point to this?"
Just because everyone else is doing something? Just because there aren't any "immediate" consequences to the things we do.
Say for instance, there's someone who's going 10 miles over the speed limit. If they aren't caught, it's likely they'll do it again. Why? Because they got away with it, thus not suffering any consequences. Does this make driving over the speed limit alright? No, it's still a mandate on the driver to go by the speed limits.
I use this analogy to point out that we shouldn't be so quick to rule out the possibility that perhaps Halloween isn't something that anyone who calls themselves a believer should participate in.
Even more so, it's a dangerous place to be in to automatically assume exactly what the Lord would and wouldn't allow in our lives. Who knows the mind of God? As we get closer to God and understand His character and what pleases and doesn't please the Father, it becomes easier to filter through the darkness and see the light of things.
I once heard a story about a man who was a professional counterfeit spotter when it came to money. People would exclaim that he must have studied counterfeits for a long time. His reply to them was that he studied so much of the real that it was then easy for him to spot the counterfeit.
Remember not to lean on your own understanding, because there is a way that seems right to a man but it's end is in destruction.
wow i did not know that halloween had such a history and how do you know all of this i did not know that and i am in the 9th grade well anyways that is pretty cool so thnk you for telling me that and i really enjoy hearing that from a person who knows wat they are doing i hope you have a happyhalloween and may the ghost of everything scary be with you.....
fucking history
this is to 'MELODY'..
"wow really?! 'all sinners will go to hell'? hm. then i guess the whole world is kinda shxt outa luck then, huh XD
i didn't plan on writing anything, but i had to reply to that, cause i had to let everyone know how ridiculous that sounded to me, Hahah!
ok, SO, i'ma christian & i DO celebrate halloween. there was never a day in my life where i didn't celebrate halloween.. & the way that i see it, is that halloween should be celebrated by those who WANT to & feel comfortable celebrating this holiday.. those who don't want to celebrate or support this harmless fun.. THEN DONT! sure. share your views on how evil you think that one day out of the 365 is, but don't put others down or tell them that they shouldnt be having fun on that day just because you HEARD its got bad history or because you're annoyed over your doorbell ringing so much.. just cause your not having fun, doesnt mean you should try to bring others down.. people were raised differently & everyone is not the same.. SO, how bout we all just let each other have our own beliefs. if you don't want your kids celebrating halloween.. then make em stay inside, but don't expect that they'll do the same for their children OR want to see you after they move out XD that might sound bad or childish, but there ARE some people who say that that nonsense HAS affected their life in a bad way.. & they might not want to see you..
BUT anyways. everyone's got different beliefs.. its good to put your views out there, but don't argue with people over different beliefs. its THEIR decision (=
Have A Happy Halloweeeen! =D
Melody says everyone should (= nobody shouldn't) celebrate Holloween. That's good enough for me to celebrate! She's a great spokesperson for Christians. Being ironic aside, first, it is quite clear that Halloween is NOT celebrating the devil. Second, most people who celebrate it probably don't really know why. Ask them what belief it celebrates and you'll probably get a lot of blank stares. So it has little or no meaning related to its original intent. Whether that is good or bad is up to you to decide, but I'm somewhat indifferent. It's now part of our culture, so has taken on its own meaning. What about Christmas and Easter? They have turned into "Hallmark" holidays - probably "celebrated" by corporations that sell things more than by the people who buy the stuff. Like Halloween, kids see candy and presents as the main point.
DISCLAIMER:
THE OPINION STATED IS MINE, I AM NOT TELLING ANYONE THAT THEY ARE WRONG, I AM SIMPLY STATING WHAT I HAVE FOUND TO BE TRUE! AND ALSO, IT IS A GOOD THING FOR CHRISTIANS TO DEBATE ABOUT WHAT GOD EXPECTS OF US, AS IT BRINGS US IN A CLOSER RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM!
It was Halloween yesterday, and I didn't participate at all. The Idea of dressing up and getting candy has fascinated me, trust me. However, kids have also been enticed by candy, only to end up being kidnapped. Being a teenager, I like to know how to address my friend's arguments for Halloween. Here are a few reasons I've found on why not to celebrate what I like to call 'death and decay day'. I'm going to split it into 2 messages cause it's too long on it's own.
1. "I only do Halloween for the candy."
That's what everybody says. However, when I look out the window, I see skeletons hanging in trees, mutilated hands, zombie faces, etc. etc. If it is really only for the candy, then why are all these gruesome decorations set up? People seem to enjoy these a lot too.
2. "There is nothing wrong with a few silly witches and ghosts!"
Deuteronomy 18:10-12 says that anyone who practices sorcery or witchcraft is DETESTABLE TO THE LORD! It's God's word, are you clear? There is NO debating on that point. All year long children are taught that these things are far from God, therefore should be far from us that are followers of Christ. Then suddenly, on Halloween, witches and demons are all considered 'fun and happy'? God's word is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow, therefore, witches are ALWAYS, without exception, to be avoided. As for demons, what are demons? Demons are angels that have forsaken God and all his commands. In other words, there is absolutely nothing good in demons. They wander the Earth, as does Satan, looking for a gullible person not sure of what they believe to jump on and drag them over to hopelessly fight for Satan. Should we portray these fallen angels as good, or at least funny? The answer is an unequivocal NO! Why would we do that?!? Do we want the children imitating them? Tell me, I dare you, what good is there in these things?
3. "Dressing up was so the evil spirits didn't recognise us. Bobbing for apples was because of the Romans festival of worshipping the goddess of trees and fruits, Pomona, and has absolutely nothing to do with Halloween. Lighting pumpkins was to ward off evil spirits as they were supposedly scared of fire. Would God find any of this sinful?"
Honestly, do you even read your Bible?
Ok, first of all, what God would find sinful in this, is that we are doubting God. When the disciple Thomas doubted Jesus, Jesus blessed everyone EXCEPT Thomas. In the end of time, God will come and wipe the Devil and all his collected forces of the face of the Earth. You say you believe in Jesus, yet you don't believe that he can protect you from his own playtoys(Demons)? I'm telling you OUT OF WORRY FOR YOU, that you better re-address your relationship with the Alpha and the Omega. And what about, "Bobbing for apples was because of the Romans festival of worshipping the goddess of trees and fruits, Pomona, and has absolutely nothing to do with Halloween." Would God find this sinful? When Paul was walking around Athens, he came across an altar to an 'Unknown God'. He went to the Elders of the city and explained to them that this 'Unknown God' was the one real God, that created the earth and everything in it, including the trees and the crops. The fact that you are giving credit to a made up deity is what offends God, I assure you.
4. We use Halloween as an opportunity to teach children what evil is and what is wrong with it.
I saw this argument pop up a few times, and actually I was somewhat sympathetic with your cause. If your children are capable of understanding that, then may God bless you in your endeavors. I know from working in Awana's at my church that most younger kids would have trouble picking out the good and the bad in a situation like that. But like I said, if you've found a way to incorporate Halloween to them so they enjoy the good but detest the bad, then good for you.
5. "Halloween is just a part of American culture now"
Well, a lot of things our culture does are sinful. Does that mean that we can participate too without any blame? Let's all go cheat, lie, scream at our own families, and join strip clubs. Then, when we stand before God's thrine, we can tell him, "but I didn't know any better, everyone else was doing it!" Maybe not. I'm not saying that I don't cheat, lie, and scream at my sister, but it is something I acknowledge as wrong, try, with God's help to stop, and ask forgiveness. Being evil and saying that God doesn't hold you accountable because everyone is doing it is NEVER an excuse.
That's why I don't do Halloween. And please, in arguing your point, use reason, and courtesy, and stop with the lack of punctuation, bad grammar, and bad sportsmanship in insulting. If you insist on being a jerk, though, go ahead, as it gives me a good laugh. May we all grow closer to God through earnest debate.
I LOVE THE WAY YAW WROTE IT BUT IT SSTILL DONT EXPLAIN HOW IS HALLOWEEN CELEBRATE
If a person is led by the Spirit of Christ they do not want to be influenced by these type of things. AMEN
Remember "everybody" calls themselves a Christian.
I have personally met some survivors of satanic abuse. The sacrifices do still happen today, except most don't survive. The abuse leaves horrendous scars physically, emotionally, and spiritually. There is a way to recover, with the Lord as the healer, but it is a very long and painful road. Halloween is one of the most powerful nights for satanists to prayer to the Evil one. It's not fiction...this does happen and some of these people who do sacrifices are pillars of the community.
I like anonymous' comments...they are taken from the Word, which I, for one, would like to understand further.
Mike says:
13 months ago
Ok, I find there are so many things wrong with your conclusion. First of all I am a devote Christian, as are my family. I also strongly believe that Halloween should be celebrated. Halloween is NOT worshiping the devil. In fact I am quite perplexed that with the amount of detail you have gone in to that you have not figured that out. You seem to have done your research but I feel you have done 2 + 2 = 5 here. Halloween was a festival that has been practiced since before Christianity was founded and the sole purpose of it was to REPEL the devil! The whole point of the pagan festival was to repel evil spirits that supposedly walked the earth on October 31st. I could go into a huge amount of detail with many many reasons as to why Halloween should be celebrated but the main point is Christians, in fact, should be participating. You'll even find that all of the Halloween activities have nothing to do with worship in any way. Dressing up was so the evil spirits didn't recognise us. Bobbing for apples was because of the Romans festival of worshipping the goddess of trees and fruits, Pomona, and has absolutely nothing to do with Halloween. Lighting pumpkins was to ward off evil spirits as they were supposedly scared of fire. Would God find any of this sinful? It is my honest opinion that God would want us to embrace this holiday, a holiday dedicated to repelling the devil. You have simply been confused by how we go about this. That is why Christians should celebrate Halloween and unlike most other holidays, this has stuck to its roots in retrospect as to what should be done on this day. Even if people don't realise it.