I remember the year I decided trick-or-treating was no longer for us. My children and I had walked the back streets of our small hometown. For most of the night, we hadn't encountered anything too spooky or spirit-cringing. Until we were halfway down the final street. This particular house was decorated in honor of evil spirits. Several half-drunk adults were in the front yard handing out candy to small children. No sooner than I'd reached the edge of their property with my children did I feel the spiritual darkness exuding from it. We skipped that house. And we never went trick-or-treating again.
Am I against children dressing up and going door-to-door asking for candy once a year? No. I am against the use of evil and spooky costumes. My children don't need to have nightmares for a week after witnessing someone wearing a scary mask that squirts blood down its face. I am against calling on evil spirits in the name of having fun (or for any other reason).
I am for a time of fun and bringing honor to God for the harvest He has provided. Hence, our annual attendance at our church's Harvest Party. Dressing up in God-honoring costumes and playing games like bobbing for apples and hay bale bowling can be more fun than trick-or-treating! Watching my husband spend a few minutes in "jail" until someone bails him out with a quarter is fantastic fund-raising for the children's ministry. I support it wholeheartedly.
What are some things your church offers as an alternative to Halloween? Feel free to leave a comment!
