How a night of costumes and candles finds its roots in a holy celebration of faith, remembrance, and renewal.
As October draws to a close, many prepare for an evening of costumes, candy, and cheerful fright. Yet the history of Halloween uncovers a much older and deeply spiritual story—one that begins with All Hallows’ Eve and leads into the radiant celebration of All Saints’ Day.
At The Leo House, we honor this time as more than just a change in the calendar. It’s a sacred reminder that life, death, and eternal hope are all part of God’s grand design—and that even in the darkness, His light endures.
The History of Halloween and the Meaning of “All Hallows’ Eve”
The word Halloween comes from the Old English phrase All Hallows’ Eve—the evening before All Hallows’ (Saints’) Day. In the Church’s ancient rhythm, a feast day begins at sundown on the night before, echoing the Jewish understanding of sacred time (“and there was evening, and there was morning…”).
Thus, October 31 was known as All Hallows’ Eve, the vigil of prayer and reflection leading into November 1, All Saints’ Day. On this day, the Church honors all holy men and women—known and unknown—who have gone before us into heaven.
While modern Halloween customs such as costumes and trick-or-treating have roots in European harvest festivals and local folk traditions, their timing and name are distinctly Christian. The celebration began not with fright, but with faith—a night to prepare hearts for the joy of the saints.
All Saints’ Day: A Celebration of Heaven’s Family
On November 1, the Church celebrates the Communion of Saints—the countless souls who now live in the glory of God’s presence. From great saints like St. Peter and St. Teresa of Ávila to quiet, humble believers known only to God, All Saints’ Day reminds us that holiness is attainable for every person who lives in grace and love.
The solemnity began in the early centuries of Christianity, when believers honored martyrs who had given their lives for Christ. Over time, as the number of saints grew, the Church established a single day to commemorate all of them together.
By the ninth century, All Saints’ Day was celebrated universally on November 1—transforming the darker rituals of autumn into a joyful proclamation that life conquers death, and love never ends.
All Souls’ Day: Remembering and Praying for the Faithful Departed
The Church’s remembrance doesn’t end there. On November 2, we observe All Souls’ Day, a day of prayer for the faithful departed who are still on their journey toward heaven. Catholics around the world light candles, visit cemeteries, and offer Masses for loved ones who have passed away.
Together, All Hallows’ Eve, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day form a sacred triduum known as the Days of the Dead—a time to reflect on our mortality, rejoice in the saints, and pray for the souls who still await the fullness of God’s light.
From Fear to Faith: The Christian Heart of the Season
While Halloween has evolved into a cultural celebration filled with candy and costumes, its Christian origin offers a deeper message: fear does not have the final word—faith does.
The saints remind us that holiness is not reserved for a few heroic souls; it’s a calling for all of us. And in remembering the souls of the faithful departed, we affirm that love endures beyond death.
At The Leo House, where travelers from every corner of the world find rest, we carry forward this same message of hope and hospitality. Whether guests come seeking quiet reflection, a place of prayer, or simply a warm welcome, they share in the spirit of this holy season—a season that bridges the seen and the unseen, the earthly and the eternal.
A Reflection for All Hallows’ Eve
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5
As candles glow and prayers rise from our chapel on All Hallows’ Eve, we remember that the saints were once ordinary people, too—travelers on the road of faith, seeking God’s presence in a world that often seemed uncertain.
May this sacred season inspire each of us to walk that same path of courage and compassion. May we remember that in Christ, even death becomes a doorway to life everlasting.
Visit and Reflect
We hope you enjoyed learning about the history of Halloween and we invite you to experience peace, prayer, and Christian hospitality at The Leo House in New York City this season. Whether you’re visiting for All Saints’ Day Mass, a quiet retreat, or simply passing through, you are always welcome here.
And if you feel moved to help us continue our mission of hospitality, please consider supporting our efforts to create more accessible rooms for all guests. Your generosity helps us keep the light of welcome burning brightly—today and always.
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