Primary 4/11/22: History behind Halloween

During the Iron Ages, the ancient Celtic pagans celebrated Halloween (‘Hallow’ – Holy person; ‘eve’ – a contraction of Eve), also known as Samhain. This was a three-day fire festival with participants recognising the deaths of relatives and the hope that they would rejoin the living.

Through the conversion of the Celtics, many traditions were lost. Samhain was called ‘All Hallows Day’ or ‘All Saints Day.’ It was now seen as a time to celebrate Christian saints and martyrs rather than the spirits of the Celtics. Food offerings and prayers for the poor became a significant part of All Saints Day. Ephesians 5:11 “Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.”

As life continued, there were times when Halloween was forbidden around the world and when it was embraced. In America, as the migrant population increased from the United Kingdom, and in particular Ireland, the old traditions of Halloween became more prevalent in society. More and more Christian influences became less, and modern-day Halloween was born. Instead of prayer and food offerings, trick-and-treating could be seen in the neighbourhoods. Costumes and decorations were sold in retail stores. Terrifying movies and TV shows can be viewed in cinemas and on television. And today, Halloween is now a money-making festival rather than a time of praying and giving to the poor.

If you are anything like me, Halloween makes me feel uncomfortable. I don’t like the idea of making my house look scary or wearing spooky costumes. And to be honest, my heart starts racing when I watch spine chilling movies. God reminds us in Psalm 56:3-4, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in You. In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust. I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” Nothing feels better knowing that God is always there for you, that he loves you, and that God will always take care of you!

Regards,

Mrs Gillian Coote

Deputy Principal – Primary

Open-ended equipment is a great way to learn!

Learning in Prep is best facilitated with the use of versatile and open-ended materials. On two separate occasions, small groups of children in the Ice Cream class, used these magnetic tiles in different ways. Through these experiences they experimented with space, balance, shape and colour. They developed concentration and planning skills. The team work and cooperation these boys developed in their play, will support their growth and learning journey as the head to Kindergarten in 2023!