As Halloween approaches, stores overflow with costumes and spooky decorations, fueling a multi-billion dollar industry. Yet, one author is urging families to look beyond the surface and rediscover the holiday’s forgotten spiritual heart.
Anthony DeStefano, known for his faith-based writing, penned “All Hallows’ Eve” with a specific intention: to reclaim Halloween as a time of prayer, remembrance, and honoring those who have passed on. He envisioned a way for families to enjoy the season’s fun and mystery while remaining connected to their beliefs.
DeStefano believes the modern celebration has drifted far from its roots, becoming increasingly focused on darkness and spectacle. He sees a concerning trend of glorifying evil in entertainment, potentially numbing our sense of morality.
The author points to recent events – moments of loss and challenges to openly expressing faith – as evidence of a growing hostility towards religion. He suggests these aren’t isolated incidents, but rather symptoms of a deeper cultural shift.
“All Hallows’ Eve” follows a group of children who encounter an elderly woman tending to graves, offering prayers for the souls in purgatory. Through her, they learn the true meaning of the holiday, a message rooted in Catholic tradition.
Historically, Halloween, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day formed Allhallowtide, a three-day period dedicated to honoring saints and praying for the departed. This tradition emphasized remembrance and the hope of eternal life.
DeStefano isn’t advocating for abandoning Halloween traditions. Instead, he encourages parents to use the occasion as an opportunity to educate their children about the holiday’s origins and the importance of honoring loved ones who are no longer with us.
He suggests that even seemingly macabre costumes – mummies, ghosts, skeletons – can serve as a poignant reminder of mortality and the promise of reunion in heaven. The holiday, at its core, offers a message of hope and enduring love.
Ultimately, DeStefano believes Halloween isn’t about celebrating darkness, but about acknowledging the reality of death and affirming the triumph of eternal life. It’s a time to shine a light, not glorify the shadows.
He envisions a Halloween where the “hallow” is restored, a celebration that acknowledges both the mystery and the sacredness woven into the fabric of this ancient tradition.
