With less than two weeks to go till October 31st, some parents are wondering about celebrating Halloween with their children because of its focus on ghosts and ghouls and paganism. Dr. Douglas Jacoby, a Bible scholar and teacher in Georgia, answers frequently asked questions about Biblical topics. The following response was taken from his Q & A section  of UpCyberDown and provides his insight to the question, "What About Halloween?"

To share your thoughts on this controversial subject and any tips you may have for other parents on how to handle it, please email us at family@ucd.net.  We'd love to share your tips with our readers.

	Q: "We do not celebrate Halloween. It used to be my understanding that Satanists view Halloween as a special day. I have tried to research books, periodicals and the Internet on the subject of Halloween, though I have not been able to find evidence to support this allegation. In fact, I have not been able to find definitive, reliable information on the origins of Halloween at all. Because I am not certain, we have not celebrated Halloween for 3 years (I have been a disciple for 2). I do not want to have anything to do with Satanism/devil worship or witchcraft. I do not know of any other disciples who feel this way. Everyone just seems to think Halloween is fun and harmless. No one I have spoken to has researched Halloween or knows anything about its origins or significance. What is your advice on this?" --Monique Pierce A: I am glad you ask the question, because a good number of churchgoers are of the opinion that Halloween is a serious compromise with the powers of darkness. Now you asked me for my advice, and about my opinion. Well, my opinion is that Halloween is, for the most part, harmless fun. My advice is that each disciple follow his own conscience and convictions based on scripture. ... more >>