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Halloween has Christian origins. What is called "All Saints Day", was at one time the commemoration of martyrs, and it was changed from May to November 1, by Pope Gregory IV in 835. The night before was considered "Holy Evening" and thereby became Halloween. To be specific, the following day, November 2, became "All Souls Day". Catholics Beware? Heck, no.

The Irish-Catholics brought the practice of "trick-or-treating" with them from Ireland in the 1800's. Hundreds of years ago, the Irish farmers prepared for both All Saints Day, and All Souls Day simultaneously, collecting goods for the village feast and bonfire. This can be a terrific time to recognize we are but "dust to dust" and if, how, and when we meet our Maker, if there is one, is a common issue for us all!
The modern custom of of decorating for Halloween with pumpkins, leaves, and cornstalks comes from the Druidic traditions. In theory, ghosts, spirits, fairies, witches, and elves came out to harm people. The early peoples of Europe also had a festival similar to the Druid holiday. The old pagan customs and the Christian festivals were combined into the holiday in the 700's.
In modern times, Halloween is celebrated with pranks and parties, with a tolerance and mixture of many belief systems. My personal tradition, is to spend the night listening to call-in ghost stories,on late night talk radio. I wouldn't suggest doing this if you want to get a good night's sleep. Happy Halloween!

Learn more about this author, Peggy Molloy.
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