From Darkness to Light: Reclaiming Halloween with Joy and Community
Halloween is here again! Love it or hate it, it’s a fixture in our calendars, with shops and communities fully embracing it! Spending in the UK is expected to increase from £687 million in 2024 to £777 Millon this year, driven by rising costs and increased consumer enthusiasm for the event.
Interestingly, Halloween has deep historical roots with a Christian connection. Its origins combine Celtic, Roman, and Christian traditions. The Celtic festival of Samhain marked the end of harvest, when the boundary between the living and the dead was believed to be thin. Romans added feasts such as Feralia, honouring the dead, and a celebration for Pomona, goddess of fruit and trees. In response, the early Christian church introduced the Feast of All Saints on November 1 to redirect focus from pagan customs. The night before, All Hallows’ Eve, eventually became Halloween.
So while Halloween began with a Christian context, its modern-day celebration is often secular and commercial. For children, “Trick or Treating” can be fun, but for many families, it brings anxiety or discomfort. This is where we as Christians have an opportunity to offer a positive, joyful alternative: Light Parties.
Scripture Union research shows that 95% of under-18s in the UK do not attend church—but many are open to faith! Light Parties are designed to reach children and families in a fun, safe, and welcoming environment. Last year, over 120 children enjoyed face painting, glow sticks, hot dogs, games and craft as well as worship and a message of God’s love. Many families who had never visited a church before have since returned for Sunday services, showing the lasting impact of these events.
Light Parties are more than just fun—they are a way to build community, introduce children and families to the love of God, and show that church is relevant, joyful, and welcoming. They are an invitation to experience faith in a tangible, positive way.
This year, we want to make our Light Party even bigger and so we need your help! Whether volunteering, helping with setup, or simply spreading the word, you can be part of this incredible opportunity to bring light into our community.
If you are available and would like to help on the 31st October
then please complete the sign-up form below.
As parents are staying you don’t need a Kerith DBS.
Help us spread the word and promote this years Light Party!
Please PRAY for us
and cover the night in prayer.
- Jo Foster
Kerith Kids Champion/
Bracknell Children’s Pastor