New poll asks "What are pastors telling their congregations?"
I know lots of Christians who avoid Halloween. I did years ago. I get it and even respect it, depending on how you handle it.
Many churches put on wonderful events as Halloween alternatives, and I understand their goal. The last church I planted did so. Some churches do it due to their convictions on Halloween and I respect the theological aspect of that decision. I've seen such events done well.
But my point is: don't waste the best opportunity you have each year to meet your neighbors.
As such, here is my suggestion:
- Get a costume.
- Buy candy.
- Put costume on.
- Give candy out.
- Go get candy from your neighbors.
- Meet all your neighbors.
- Build on those new relationships.
Here are four reasons you might want to go trick-or-treating tonight:
1. There is no other night in the year when people you have not met will be coming to your door. You want to be there, meet them, and visit with them. If you are at a Halloween alternative, you miss your neighbors.
2. There is no other night when you get to go to your neighbor's door and introduce yourself without any awkwardness (only if you have kids—otherwise it's creepy and you should stay home and pass out candy). Tonight, you will meet people at your door and at their door—what an amazing opportunity.
Halloween trick-or-treating might be the best opportunity you have to connect with the unchurched all year.
3. You don't have to worship the devil to go up and ask your neighbor for candy. Choose your costume and your words carefully, and many Christians find this an opportunity, not an occult experience. I know the history of Halloween, but your neighbors don't, so don't assume they are participating in some dark ritual if it has lost all that meaning. (Now, if ...
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