There is no mention of Halloween in the Bible, therefore it can be a controversial subject.
All Hallow’s Eve–or All Saints Day–celebrated on November 1st, honors the saints who have died, which is how Halloween originated. Halloween is considered a major holiday celebrated by many. It is a day to dress in costume and trick or treat. Since Halloween is a dark holiday, should Catholics celebrate Halloween?
Sophomore theology teacher and Campus Minister, Caitlyn Snatchko and Freshmen and Sophomore math teacher, Peter Fardo, both practicing Catholics, were interviewed for their opinion on Halloween. Both of them would not consider Halloween an evil holiday in fact, this is Mrs. Snatcko’s favorite holiday! When asked, both celebrated Halloween as children.” Halloween is the evening vigil before All Saints Day and an opportunity to celebrate appropriately in Catholic families” said Fardo.
Snatcko agrees, saying there is nothing wrong with celebrating Halloween if you celebrate in a Catholic manner.
They both said to pray for those who have died. Fardo says, “Halloween is a time to celebrate and live as part of the Communion of Saints.”
Snatckco says to “talk about the origin of the holiday” with your children so they understand the real meaning behind it.
Both Fardo and Snatckco say “evil is real” and take no part in that evil, but rise above it. Don’t participate in sorcery or any other demonic actions, listen to your conscience because you know right from wrong.
Some advice for Catholics who choose to celebrate Halloween is as follows: Snatcko’s advice is to “Remember those who died, have fun creating memories, spending time with family and friends and trick or treating.” Fardo with similar advice says “It is a great time to dress up as your favorite Saint! People outside our faith who you meet will ask questions and give you the opportunity to evangelize – what a great way to celebrate and have fun while keeping the focus on the real reason behind Halloween.”
The overall message to Catholics who celebrate Halloween is to have fun, stay safe, and do what Jesus would do.
