In the late Fall on the agricultural calendar, as the leaves fall from the trees, the earth's birlliance is fading and temperatures get colder there is time to settle in and honor those who have passed away during the early part of the year. Many in earth-centered and today's Pagan communities call their holiday Samhain (sow-in). The word means "summer's end."  This name comes dominantly from Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man. Calan Gaeaf is a similar holiday from Wales. It falls halfway between the autumnal equinox and winter solstice.

The traditions and stories that surround the holiday speak of the Otherworld or the place where the ancestors dwell. Early literature sspeaks of large gatherings and feasts and portals to that world at the ancient burial places. It is a time when the place between the world of the living and the ancestors was open to contact loved ones. Food is served to the dead and bonfires are lit symbolizing the feed of the clan and giving them a time of warmth. The common thread to all of the celebrations is one of honoring those who lived before each of us. It honors our ties to our roots and ancestral lineage. 

Over the years, the holiday has morphed into Christian dogma as All Souls Day and All Saints Day. Many of our contemporary Halloween traditions were birthed from Irish and Scottish immigrants. It seems a modern way to acknowledge death.

This is also a time of deep reflection on what one desires to let go of or cleave themselves from. It can range from habits that no longer serve us to making a transition. Take a moment to appreciate the delicate thread we walk between birth and death as we move into the season of letting go!

Below are some resources on how to celebrate the Spring Equinox around the world from a scientific, spiritual, humanist, or religious points view for many ages. Enjoy reading about the many traditions of welcoming Spring. Enjoy the sites we are sharing!

Samhain and the Waters of Hurricanes Helene and Milton-2.pdf written by Susan Foster of the Blue Ridge Spirit CUUPS Chapter at Asheville, NC UU Congregation

Beyond Halloween

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For Children - Samhain, the Original Halloween

Celebrating Samhain with Children

Teaching Children About Samhain

Samhain Explained