1 minute read
HALLOWEEN? Who's afraid of
by Ben Woollard
As October unfolds, we're greeted by a cultural event – Halloween – which often stirs mixed feelings among us Christians. Now is a good time for us to think about our own response to this event. Believe it or not, it can become a unique opportunity for connection, conversation, and reflection
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Remember what the Apostle Paul taught us: our actions –no matter how simple – can transform into acts of worship when done "for the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31). So, instead of reacting on impulse, let's take some time to think it over, pray about it, and seek God's guidance. This approach becomes even more crucial when dealing with something –like Halloween – that's often wrapped in shadows. Halloween means different things to different people. Some might want to keep their distance, others see it as a chance to share the Good News, and many work to light up the traditional darkness of the event. Despite these varied perspectives, there's a common thread – making the most of opportunities to strengthen connections, promote goodness, and share hospitality.
I remember once, during a church-arranged trick-ortreat event, an elderly lady outside our designated path invited us in for treats. She was looking for connection. It was a lightbulb moment for me: Halloween can indeed be a platform for unity and
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As Brits, we're still figuring out how we feel about Halloween. This gives us a unique chance to help shape that narrative. Here in Sheffield, our church community can use this event as a stepping stone to promote unity, spark conversations, and share God's love.
This year, we’d love to invite you into two initiatives for Arise:Hallow: 'Wear Your Faith Fortnight' (22 October – 5 November) and 'Streets of Light' (30 October – 5 November). The first one encourages us to wear our faith proudly and inspire those around us. The second asks us to turn our homes into beacons of hope and love during the Halloween season. As Halloween creeps closer, here are some questions to consider:
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