catholicsphere

Wikipedia has an article on Halloween that says that Pope Gregory III “moved the old Christian feast of All Saints Day to November 1 to give Halloween a Christian interpretation”. This gives the impression that the Church was trying to re-establish a new tradition in contrast to that which existed among pagan traditions.

In speaking of the history of Halloween in Ireland, where it was said to originate, we do find it said that “Pope Gregory IV standardized the date of All Saints’ Day, or All Hallows’ Day, on November 1 to the entire Western Church in 835. There is no primary documentation that Gregory was aware of or reacting to Samhain among the Celts in the selection of this date.”

In the Catholic Encyclopedia however, the long tradition of All Saint’s Day is presented. Lest some gloss over what is presented in Wikipedia which supports this statement, it should be noted that the actions of the Church, enacted in the 6th century, were not some reaction to modern society.

There are those who object to the modern day celebration of Halloween for its focus on the ghoulish and ghastly. However, barring other activities which may be more fulfilling, it seems right that Christians in particular open their doors to their neighbors and use it as a time to witness one’s life in Christ.

November 1st
Since Halloween, represents the anticipation of the Feast of All Saints, it should be noted that November 1st is a Holy Day of Obligation. It requires that all Catholics attend Mass on November 1st (or at a Mass on All Hallows Evening). While some may view this as a “rule and regulation”, it seems better look at this as a recognition of one’s love for God and for all those who are part of the church family who have died in a state of perfect sanctifying grace. Check with your parish for Mass times, as there are usually extra daytime, and usually an evening, Mass scheduled.

[tags]faith, catholic, halloween, christian, all saints, church, pope, history, all hallows eve[/tags]