The Catholic roots of Halloween, the Vigil of All Saints’ Day

By Christopher Wells

In the modern world, and especially in English speaking countries, Halloween has become one of the most important holidays of the year, with millions of children and adults dressing up as their favourite heroes, superstars, ghouls and goblins.

While some people have connected Halloween to earlier pagan celebrations of the new year, Halloween actually has significant Catholic roots. The name itself comes from All Hallow’s Eve – that is, the Vigil of All Saints’ Day, when Catholics remember those who have gone before us to enter our heavenly home. Immediately afterwards, on November 2, the Church commemorates all the faithful departed still detained in Purgatory, and prays in suffrage for them.’

All Hallow Eve.. the eve of All Saints day is Holy
The root of word Hallow is to make Holy..

In the Lord’s prayer, “Hallowed be thy name,” meaning In the Our Father we use the word Hallow with God name..
So Hallow ween.. is rooted in making Holy the Eve of All Saints day.

So on All Hallow eve.. the faithful pray for all the dead, especially members of their family.

The surprisingly Catholic origins of Halloween
Philip Kosloski..

‘The way we celebrate it today is far removed from any Christian influence, but the holiday has deeply Catholic roots.’

‘In various cultures in Europe there developed a tradition of “souling” and baking “soul cakes” in honor of the faithful departed. These cakes were baked on All Hallows’ Eve and children would go out on All Saints Day and All Souls Day, begging door-to-door for these cakes in exchange for praying for deceased relatives and friends.’

So asking for candy.. or more importantly receiving treats you promised to pray for the souls of the faithful departed.

That is why Church sees All Hallow Eve.. All Saints and All Souls’ Day connected. The 3 days are all connected to remembering the faithful departed.