With the coming of autumn, Christians become aware that Halloween is just around the corner. Children become excited talking about what their costumes will be and where they are going to go trick-or-treating. This is just fine if you celebrate the holiday of Halloween.
Many Christians though decide either not to celebrate, or they celebrate in a more Christian centered way. The question is though, how does a Christian teach their child about Halloween without compromising their Christian values? Included are some ideas that will hopefully point you in the right direction. Couple these ideas with prayer time asking the Lord for guidance in this area, and you can be sure you are doing the right thing for everyone involved.
A good first step is to research the subject Halloween at your local library. Discuss your findings with your Pastor to decide the best way to approach the subject with your children.
Take time to sit down with your children and explain your Christian beliefs to them. Take further time to explain how they conflict with non Christian beliefs. Do not stop them from asking questions and encourage their participation.
If you make the decision to change the name of the day, consider your children’s ideas. You can call it the “Welcome, autumn” day or the “Crazy costume” day. These are just ideas, whatever suits your family is the way to go. Use this day to fellowship, dress up in a positive costume and gorge on your favorite sweets.
Spend time together as a family carving a autumn pumpkin. Though the pumpkin does not need to be scary looking, this may be something you are not thrilled about doing. Try replacing the pumpkin with a watermelon and carve a big smiley face instead. Make sure all your children get a turn at carving and pray together before and after your activity.
If your family decides to give candy to children at your door, you can “modify” this “tradition” also. Don’t buy candy weeks before. You can actually find candy on the 31st, but you more than likely can find it at a reduced rate also saving some money. Attach you and your children’s favorite bible verse to each treat. Not only are you spreading God’s word, you are also inventing a activity that you can all do together.
Stand by your convictions and beliefs. Have fun together as a family and don’t let others opinion or pressure sway what you believe.
By spending time with your children and explaining why you celebrate Halloween the way you do can make all the difference. They will still end up enjoying the day, without forgetting our Lord. They may even make an impression on other children, by spreading God’s love to them as well. Remember to never leave the Lord out of the picture and to have fun as a family. Enjoy the day!
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Those are some good alternatives! Some churches also have “harvest parties” which are fun to go to and require costumes to be positive. One year our church had a harvest party and everyone dressed up like cowboys, farmers, scarecrows, etc. It was a lot of fun! We had games for the kids and the prizes were candy of course.
I like the idea of spreading God’s word with a bible verse attached to the candy.
Thanks for the great ideas.
I posted a couple of articles on the origins of Halloween and the superstitions of Halloween on my blog Open Talk Mom (http://opentalkmom.com) if you’d like more info those.
I love the idea of attaching a verse to the candy bar! Some churches host a Trunk or Treat where people park their cars in the lot, open up the trunks, decorate them in a positive way, and then kids can “trunk or treat” in a positive and safe environment. Usually, the churches will offer information about themselves and Jesus. (A little info treat bag, or something of that sort.)
Thanks for sharing the info. It’s a topic with a lot of controversy. I think I’ll use the scripture attached to the candy bar idea!
lately i have been trying harder to grow in my christian walk, and as a mother it is so hard now adays with trying to sugar coat things like halloween, make your kids fit in. this article helped me. thanks for everything. i really am happy i found your site. i am so glad i have found my path back to God it always helps to hear other words of wisdom. i now feel like i have courage to stand up to my friends.
Hello Lindsie! I am so glad you found your way back to God, and our site.
You are right, it is very difficult to be a Christian mother these days. We have to say no to so many things, and like you said sugar coat things and try to fit in. I’m glad this article helped you. Thank you so much for your comment!