Halloween
So, Halloween is nearly upon us, the hype is in full swing and the cash registers are loving it!
As a Church (Salvation Army) Sponsored Scout Group we will not be ‘celebrating’ Halloween. This is not to be deliberately out of step with main stream society but based on sound christain principles because
Halloween is a celebration of Evil.
It builds a culture of acceptance of dark powers.
It is becoming a commercial racket.
It is not a festival to celebrate
Instead we will be celebrating with an alternative Light party acknowledging the good things the world has to offer and the Light of the World, Christ Jesus! Halloween is also a massive peice of inconsistancy by adults in the way we bring up our children.
Why put children in a vulnerable position?
FOR 364 days of the year we tell them not to talk to strangers. At Halloween they are encouraged to knock on strangers doors for ‘trick or treat’.
Why encourage disrespect?
For 364 days of the year we instil good manners in children. At Halloween they are allowed to throw eggs, flour and other substances at people’s doors when they are refused treats. Calls for assistance to Police rocket from the elderly and other vulnerable groups who feel intimidated and terrorised by the anti-social behaviour of some young people in the name of Halloween.
Why expose them to bad things?
For 364 days of the year we tell them to be good, to do what is right. At Halloween they are allowed to dress up in costumes depicting evil characters.
Why let them play with things that make them afraid?
For 364 days of the year we try to dispel their fears and make them feel secure. At Halloween children are encourages to dwell on spooks, zombies, vampire, werewolves and all sorts of things that ‘go bump in the night’.
As adults
Let’s be consistent throughout the year.
Let’s remember that what we expose our children to in their early years will remain with them throughout life.
If they think it is acceptable to celebrate in such a way, how will they be involved with evil when they are older?
We reap what we sow!
Life is richer for a party! Celebrate something more worthwhile and credible. Have a light party instead.
Jesus Said, ‘I AM the light of the world. The person who follows me will never live in darkness but will have the light that gives life.’
(John 8:12 Youth Bible)
Looking to explore the meaning of life?
Try the Alpha course ~ Currently running at Chatham Salvation Army Church call 01634-683218 for more details.