Next week, trick-or-treaters will wear colorful costumes as part of this nation’s Halloween festivities. The origin of Halloween, however, invites us to remember two important feast days in the Church’s calendar: All Saints Day on November 1 and All Souls Day on November 2. Indeed, the word “Halloween” originates from the old English phrase, “All Hallows Eve,” referring to the vigil night before the Solemnity of All Saints (All Hallows), when the Church honors those holy men and women who have gone before us and now enjoy eternal beatitude. All Souls Day commemorates the faithful departed, whom the Church commends to the mercy of God. Given the importance of these celebrations, Catholics might consider how best to evangelize their neighbors on October 31, while still enjoying healthy autumnal activities and lots of candy (perhaps to the chagrin of local dentists). It might begin by reminding youngsters that we often “dress up” or wear costumes to imitate someone we admire. Since the saints are heavenly heroes, wearing saint or hero costumes helps communicate the importance of the values those persons evinced in their lives. The saints intercede for us. They pray for us and help us. They protect us from evil and teach us the merits of virtue and grace. Above all, they are real friends. Looking toward Heaven, we remember to pray for all the faithful departed, so that these souls might quickly join these holy friends forever. This All Hallows Eve, amidst the enjoyable treats and candies and pumpkin carving, don’t forget the saints—the heroes whom we should imitate—and the deceased, for whom we should never stop praying.
