Our Chistian Education Superintendent came up with a great idea for our church to have some fun on Halloween. Since we are a new church she wants the congregation to be familiar with the A.M.E mission statement and incorporate it in all aspects of our lives. So we are focusing on going to the shut-ins. Members of our church are dressing up in costumes and we will have a costume parade in the Nursing Home we have our church services. We will pass out candy to the residences. The director loves the idea and the United Methodist and United Church of Christ have been invited. Does your church have activites planned?

-- Anonymous, October 20, 2001

Answers

Dear Rev. Rogers Our Church is having a neighbourhood party with a difference. Costumes are to be Biblical and visitation around the neighbourhood is planned. Our Church School Superintendant has had her teachers out canvassing the hood today and will have food and treats for the children from 5-7:30p.m. We are using this to give out flyers outlining the Church's position about this activity and looking to expand the Church School. God Bless You

-- Anonymous, October 20, 2001

About 8 years ago when our present pastor came to us, he instituted "Halleluia Night". The event is held on October 31st. and is a way to make sure the children have fun, insures their safety. They are asked to wear biblical costumes. In years past, we have used themes such as Noah's Ark, The Garden of Eden, Favorite Bible Characters etc. The youngsters play games like Gospel Musical Chairs, Pin the Tie on the Pastor, Bible Trivia or Jeopardy. The youngsters learn that Christians can and do have fun. They also learn why believers don't celebrate Halloween. They are given tracts in their "goodie bags" to support our stand. The snack should be simple. (ex. Hot Dogs, Chips, Pretzels and Punch) I can truly say that a good time is had by all!! This has also been an excellent outreach tool.

-- Anonymous, October 20, 2001

I love the creativity of our A.M.E churches!! My daughter is our Christian Education Superintendent and she is 24 she has told ALL of us no scary costumes. I think I am going to be a cowgirl clown;-)

-- Anonymous, October 21, 2001

As Church School Superintendent I plan to use the occassion of Halloween to discuss its origin as a Celtic feast rooted in Christian and pagan beliefs. I will also explain the importance of October 31 as Reformation Day for Protestanism and the historic role of Martin Luther. Luther, along with St. Augustine, are arguably the most influential thinkers in Christian theology. Calvin, Wesley, Whitfield and all subsequent 20th century theologians are indebted to the former German monk for paving the way for Protestant worship. QED

-- Anonymous, October 21, 2001