Happy Hallowe'en!

From ghoulies and ghosties,
Long-leggety beasties,
And things that go bump in the night,
Good Lord, deliver us.

I like this article the most because it describes our holiday as a combination of Celtic folk customs, the Danse macabre of medieval France, and Guy Fawkes celebrations-- which means it is truly American, a result of immigrant commingling. In other words, Catholic in every sense!

On Nov.1 we pray for those in heaven. The next day we'll pray for the souls in purgatory. Tonight it is only fitting to pray for those gripped by demons-- those who are Dead. So many of the customs developed because people understood the risk of being Christian; the pagan trappings held on as a reminder of what had been left behind.

Being Christian truly is a risk, yet we have no reason to succumb to fear, if we have been redeemed. Hence, this marvelous day in the Church's year. Do you fear death? Are you ready to join the Saints? Or do demons still grip you? Are you haunted by fear, doubt, loathing, recrimination, guilt, boredom, or shame? Where do you still dwell in darkness?

Step into the light tonight. And face your demons.

And then go eat some candy.