Hello Friends!
         Crisp air, shorter days, and leaves falling on the ground are sure signs that fall has arrived! For as long as I can remember this time of year has always brought up a “controversy”. Should Christians celebrate Halloween? The first time I remember running into this was when I was in Jr High babysitting for a family. I had asked the kids what they were dressing up as and they told me they did not celebrate Halloween. (Insert awkwardness!) I was so naïve then; I didn’t know people excluded Halloween for religious reasons! I do remember looking to my grandma, who was (and still is at 89), who I love to consult about all my deep faith questions. I looked at her and how much fun she had (still has now!) dressing up every year, handing out treats, and counting how many kids come to the door. The year that my grandma wore a devil’s costume to hand out treats really threw me. Can we do that? I did wonder.  As a kid I saw that my grandma’s faith and her deep love for Jesus was a reason she wanted to dress up and serve people by giving them candy. As an adult, I find it fascinating to read about the history of Halloween and how it came to be. Take a look for yourself! It is perfectly OK if you disagree with me, but I believe it’s fine to dress up, have fun, and give all the kids (and their parents) all the candy. I hope you’ll enjoy mixing a little Halloween fun into our October sermon series as well: Spooky Stories of the Bible. Stay tuned for activities currently being planned for Sunday, October 31st as well!
Peace & Grace,
Pastor Jenny