Finding Light in the Darkness

As October rolls around, many Christians start thinking about how (or if) they should engage with Halloween. For some, it’s a straightforward decision to stay away from the holiday due to its dark themes. For others, it’s a chance to connect with their community in a fun, lighthearted way. Personally, I do let my kids dress up and participate, but I understand and support those who choose differently. So, how can we as Christians navigate this holiday with grace and intention, no matter our stance?

Respecting Different Choices

One of the beautiful things about our faith is the freedom God gives us. In Romans 14:5 Paul reminds us, “One person considers one day to be more holy than another. Another person thinks all days are the same. Each of them should be absolutely sure in their own mind. ”- NIrV

For some, this means not participating in Halloween at all, and that’s okay. For others, it’s an opportunity to meet people where they are and share joy. What’s most important is that each decision is made with a heart that seeks to honor God.

A Favorite Month-Long Tradition

In our home, the entire month of October is dedicated to learning about the Saints who lived lives of dedication to Christ. We explore their stories, their struggles, and their acts of faith, ending the month with Martin Luther on the 31st. Torchlighters is an excellent resource for this! You can watch the shows and follow up with their FREE worksheets that go along with each episode. Check out Torchlighters here! It’s a way to keep our focus on God’s goodness, even while enjoying the fun parts of Halloween. By the time Halloween night arrives, my children have spent weeks learning that, while there is darkness in the world, they can be brave and find ways to serve God, no matter what.

Ideas for Those Who Choose to Opt Out

If you prefer not to engage in traditional Halloween festivities, there are still plenty of meaningful ways to make October a special time:

• Host a “Light Night”: Consider organizing an event at your home or church with games, treats, and activities that celebrate God’s light in the world. This could include a movie night, a bonfire with s’mores, or even a “Saints Celebration” where you talk about the lives of those who dedicated themselves to Christ.
• Service Projects: Use this time to reach out to others by doing service projects as a family. You might bake cookies for your neighbors, make cards for those in nursing homes, or put together care packages for people in need.
• Celebrating Reformation Day: October 31st is also Reformation Day, a time to remember Martin Luther’s bold actions in sparking the Protestant Reformation. It’s a great opportunity to teach children about the importance of faith and standing firm in God’s truth.

For Those Who Choose to Participate

For families like mine who do participate, Halloween can be a chance to teach important lessons and spread joy. I let my kids dress up and enjoy the fun, even if they want to dress as something a bit spooky, because I want them to know that there’s nothing to fear. Here are some ways to keep your focus on faith while participating:

• Be a Light: One of our favorite traditions is carving a pumpkin and placing a candle inside as a symbol of light in the darkness. It’s a visual reminder that, even though this world can be scary, we have the light of Christ with us. Consider using glow-in-the-dark bracelets or necklaces to remind others of God’s light shining through the darkness.
• Acts of Kindness: Halloween can be a wonderful time to practice giving. While my kids love collecting candy, we also donate most of it. It’s a way to give more than we receive, which reflects God’s generosity.
• Building Community: As Christians, we’re called to build community and fellowship, and sometimes the most effective way to do that is to meet people where they are. Consider taking your trick or treaters to places that may not get many visitors, such as nursing homes or care centers, to brighten someone’s day.

Finding Freedom and Peace in Your Decision

Whether you choose to opt out of Halloween or participate in it, remember that there is no “one-size-fits-all” answer. What matters most is that we seek to glorify God in all we do. Colossians 3:17 says, “Whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

As always, pray for wisdom and seek guidance from God. And know that, whatever you choose, you can be a light in the darkness. There’s no need to be afraid, for as 1 John 4:4 says, “Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.”

Have a wonderful day!

-Amy