PULPIT & PEW
Halloween and All Saints Eve
All Saints Day has been an observance of Christian churches for centuries.
The purpose was to remember and honor the Christian dead, especially those who had died for their faith or made significant contributions to the mission of God.
Halloween, which we observe with costumes, candy and spookiness, was originally known as All Hallows Eve, or the time before All Saints Day.
Although Halloween is popular and mostly fun, I wish more of the All Saints emphasis could be restored.
Most of us know people of faith who helped form us in positive ways. We may think of them occasionally, but doing so as an assembly of believers, where we can share those memories together, can bring out a faithful renewal. Some of our area churches will do that this Sunday. Scripture refers to this experience as being “surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses.” (Hebrews 12:1 NRSV) My maternal grandmother showed me what God’s love was like.
She accepted me and did not judge me for my adolescent transgressions.
She created a craft ministry for other children and youth in the area, just as a gift, a service. By example, she showed the mission possible in a small town, small church.
None of us formed ourselves. In truth, we are still being formed at every age.
Think about that. Ponder the question who showed you how to live, how to share, how to love, how to trust God? Share those memories, remember the witnesses with others.
