Today is Halloween. Halloween is a less than sacred day that occurs one day before a Sacred Day, “All Saints Day.” All Hallows’ Eve, over time, morphed into Halloween. We celebrate All Saints Day on November 1 each year as Christians recount the memory of those who have died in the past year. This custom, observed during worship service on All Saints Day, is a Solemn ritual. Each name is read, a candle is lighted, and a bell tolls — as a sacred time of remembering the life of each Saint (Christian member) who died in the past year.
Latinos celebrate Día de los Muertos, The Day of the Dead. We mistakenly call it “Mexican Halloween,” but it isn’t. The Day of the Dead and its significance is closely related to All Saints Day. Secular celebrations have hijacked these sacred celebrations, transforming them into raucous carnivals, more focused on death, horror, and frightening festivities.
As has happened to Christmas and Easter, Halloween has hijacked the celebration of sacred events, metamorphosing them into something barely resembling their original intent and meaning. It becomes especially difficult to discern their significance in light of the hype of commercialism.
According to Forbes, …Halloween is not only the most profitable festival in the USA but also in the world. The estimated total consumer spending for Halloween in 2025 is projected to be $13.1 billion, a record high. This spending includes $3.9 billion on candy, $4.2 billion on decorations, and $3.5 billion on costumes. This holiday’s commercial success is driven by a combination of factors, including the extended holiday season, early shopping habits, and the influence of online trends. Halloween’s profitability continues to grow because Halloween is celebrated in thirteen countries, each with their own unique traditions and customs for celebrating the holiday.
“Trick or Treat” reigned as the heart of Halloween for children for years. However, cruel tricks, various criminal activities, and other nefarious deeds seem to have pushed children’s activities to safer places. Our church, along with various other organizations, hosts “Trunk or Treat” events. Members and neighbors park their cars with trunks open toward a walking pathway. Decorated automobile trucks are filled with candy and other treats for children. The event lasts several hours and features other activities, including music and a cake walk. Child safety and fun-filled entertainment are the focus of a safe and fun-filled event.
©Copyright Willis H. Moore 2025