The end of October brings longer nights, cooler temperatures and Hallowtide – a three-day observance dedicated to remembering the dead, including saints, martyrs and all the faithful departed. The “triduum” of feast days begins Oct. 31 with All Hallows’ Eve (also called All Saints’ Eve, Day of the Dead and, of course, Halloween) and also includes All Saints Day Nov. 1 and All Souls’ Day Nov. 2. There are several sweet ways to celebrate this season.
The name Hallows’ Eve comes from the Old English “hallowed,” meaning holy or sanctified – now shortened to the familiar word “Hallowe’en.” In the early Church, communities gathered to celebrate Mass and pray for the intercession of saints and for deceased loved ones. While the celebration has evolved to a more secular day of pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating, costumes and treats, you can still indulge while taking time to go to Mass, pray for the departed, or spend time with holy relics of the saints. (Dozens of relics to be displayed for All Saints Day). You can also enjoy sweet treats like chocolate covered pretzels, whose twisted shape originally represented arms crossed in prayer.