Each year I struggle with what to do about Halloween. Should I ignore it, hoping that the colourful ignition of several kilos of explosive a few days later will serve as a distraction?
Should I provide an alternative event to prohibit the young people from trick or treating? Should I attack Halloween head on, exposing it for the occult celebration that lies not far beneath the surface? The hope is that this month's article will inspire you afresh to use Halloween as an opportunity for the gospel, and not just an evening to keep your head below the parapet.
Party on
Many churches use Halloween as an opportunity to put on a party or event that reflects very different values. Some call them 'parties of light' or rainbow parties, the idea being to emphasise Jesus, the light of the world, not the darkness of the occult. Food and fancy dress are great ideas for these parties, after all that's the essence of trick or treating. But into the mix you can also throw games, videos, fun and laughter. Of course, you're inside in the warm too. Try to time the party so that it will deliberately clash with the 5-7 o'clock slot when most youngsters would be out on the streets. You want to provide a rival not a back-up.
