Monday, October 31, 2011

The Halloween Dilemma

"Our Father, which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name." What a shame that the one holiday with a name that partly means "holy, consecrated" is associated not with Our Father, but with His archenemy.

The pagan origin of Halloween has caused it to fall into disrepute with most Christians today. Indeed, other Christian holidays such as Christmas and Easter, have ties to idolatry and spiritualistic religions, but they are not viewed with as much disdain as Halloween.

The biggest dilemma for how to celebrate any of these secularized "holy-days" falls on the shoulders of parents. Peer pressure is powerful at any age and the best defense is gentle instruction and example. Children shouldn't feel punished for not participating. Other fun activities can be provided that will plant seeds of joy, rather than seeds of rebellion. And don't forget to teach, teach, teach why your celebrations are of a different spirit and character.

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