Newsletters / Why Do We Say “Trick or Treat”?

The Visionary

Happy Halloween, Hallowe’en, All Hallow’s Eve, All Saints’ Eve, and Samhain (depending on how you celebrate)! This week at The Visionary, we’re diving into the tricky, treaty history of Halloween – from its ancient origins as a Pagan harvest festival in pre-Christian Europe, to its Middle Age Christianization, to now. Plus, a viral Halloween PSA about “sexy nun” costumes that you don’t want to miss. Gourd have mercy!

Halloween's Pagan Past

Did you know that the holiday we know as Halloween dates back thousands of years to pre-Christian Europe? Here’s the history of how a Pagan harvest festival turned into our spookiest holiday on the calendar.

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No Tricks, All Treats

Millions of kids will head out trick-or-treating tonight, but do you know how this cherished tradition began? We’ve documented the fascinating religious history – and how dead spirits factor in.

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Pagan Blessing Kit

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Portable Communion Set

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Twisted Sister: Nun Costumes Come Under Scrutiny

Is dressing up as a “sexy nun” for Halloween offensive? Sparked in part by a viral video, an ethical debate is raging about the sexualization of religious imagery. Some Catholics argue that showing skin as a Halloween nun or priest is tantamount to cultural appropriation, while others insist it’s just the spirit of the season (and that perhaps the Catholic Church isn’t in the best position to lob complaints about unwanted sexualization).

Bad Habit or Harmless Fun?

Ceremonial Handfasting Cord

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The Bhagavad Gita

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Handfasting 101

Ready to learn about unity ceremonies? Explore the ancient ritual of handfasting: how it originated, what the ceremony entails, and how to perform one.

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Día de los Muertos

The Day of the Dead is just around the corner. While some mistake this holiday for a sort of “Mexican Halloween,” its origins are actually entirely different.

Learn the Real Story

Premium Wedding Package

Looking to boost your wedding officiating game? The Premium Wedding Package comes with everything you need to perform ceremonies with resounding success. Featuring a premium ordination credential, a copy of the ULC wedding guide "By the Power Vested in You," as well as a wide range of accessories, you'll be fully prepared for any wedding that comes your way this fall season.

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