“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us…” (Hebrews 12:1)
In early versions of the Bible, the word “witnesses” was translated as “saints.” All Saints Day was established to remember all the “saints” who have passed to the next life, but their “witness” helps Christians to “persevere in the race marked out for us.” The original author of Hebrews was not establishing a special day in the church year, but it became a key verse as the church established “All Saints Day.” “All Hallowed Eve,” or Halloween, is the making sacred or hallowed of the saints and martyrs in the early church in preparation for All Saints Day. Vigils the night before are common for church holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving. There are many theories on the origins of Halloween. Like many Christian holidays, their historical roots are cloudy, with the intentions of the church and parallel pagan festivities. One theory is that Halloween and All Saints Day came from a Celtic harvest festival, specifically from the Irish.
Check out the October Newsletter (posted here on the church website) for a short summary of Halloween and All Saints Day. The summary is provided to encourage us to share our church with others. Yes, we at the First Presbyterian Church will have an “All Saints Sunday” on November 2.
We are also planning “Trunk or Treat” on October 31st. It is a wonderful time for kids of all ages. But it is so much more. “Trunk or Treat” is an excellent opportunity to meet our neighbors. I hope you will come and contribute to the hospitality for which the First Presbyterian Church is known. Let’s greet and welcome our neighbors! ~ Pastor George