All Hallows' Eve

Halloween is a name that means nothing by itself. It is a contraction of 'All Hallows' Eve'. It designates the vigil of All Hallows' Day, more commonly known today as All Saints Day, which is November 1st.

As a verb, hallow means to make something holy or to honour it as holy. It also means to respect greatly or venerate.  Hallow, as a noun, is an old English word for saint.

All Saints Day, November 1, and its vigil, October 31, have been celebrated since the early eighth century when they were instituted by Pope Gregory III in Rome. A century later, the feast and its vigil were extended to the Church at large by Pope Gregory IV. Today, All Saints Day is a Holy Day.

I found it interesting to look into the history and true meaning of these two days. It is a far cry from all the grotesque costumes and other commercial offerings we see today.

Today, I have made a little corner of remembrance in my home with fresh flowers and candles and a colourful pumpkin. It serves to remind me of all the loved ones in my life who have passed on to the other life beyond our physical realm.

Tomorrow, I shall go to the cemetery and take flowers and a special grave candle (which is covered to protect it from wind and rain). This is what many people in Europe do on November 1st.