Dear friends around the world, The celebration of Halloween is a growing trend around the world, especially due to the influence of popular American culture. Even though most consider it to be a secular festival, its origins are thousands of years old. Stemming from the ancient Celtic practices of Europe, over the centuries it has transformed into a secular festival, surviving sustained attempts to end its practice. In its form today it is mostly known for its scary costumes and decorations, fun games and trick-or-treating. Halloween is also one of His Eminence the 25th Tsem Rinpoche’s favourite celebrations, as His Eminence fondly remembers his time growing up in the United States of America. We hope you enjoy reading about the history, origins and practices of Halloween. Pastor David Lai and Pastor Niral Patel.       The Beginnings of Halloween Beyond the costumes and garish decorations, Halloween has more of an ancient origin than what is commonly known. Halloween itself is a contraction of the older name ‘All Hallows’ Eve’. Throughout history, Halloween was also known by a number of names including Samhain, All Hallows’ Evening, Allhalloween or even All Saints’ Eve. It was originally celebrated on October 31st in […]