Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. -Hebrews 12:1 (ESV)
In our culture today, Halloween is known for monsters and candy like Easter is known for the easter bunny and jellybeans. But, like Easter, Halloween actually also finds its roots in Catholicism.
The literal meaning of the word “Halloween” is “Hallow Eve” or “All Hallow’s Eve.” Like the meaning of “eve” in Christmas Eve, Halloween comes before a feast day in the Catholic Church: All Saints Day.
On All Saints Day, we celebrate all those holy men and women who came before us and won the victory of heaven. The saints inspire us to live out the mission God has called us to, and remembering the saints helps us to resolidify our own call to holiness.
The day after All Saints Day is also a feast, known as All Souls Day. On All Souls Day, we remember and pray for all those who have died and are in purgatory. Praying for these souls enduring their final purging before entering heaven helps us remember our own death. Having a healthy remembrance of the inevitability of death is actually a good practice for Christians, as it helps us keep our goal—heaven—in sight, in spite of all the distractions of this world.
So, on Halloween, remember these two important feasts in the Church we are actually celebrating, and let the feasts of All Saints Day and All Souls Day remind you to live your life in such a way that you’ll have no regrets at your time of death.
© Isabelle Wood 2024
Photo copyright Canva
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