Lutheran Ping!
Wishing a Blessed Reformation & Hallowtide!
Wishing a Blessed Reformation & Hallowtide!
Can someone refer me to a good source of info regarding the origins of the observance of the Eve of all Hallows, and how it came to associated with evil spirits in various forms (e.g., black cats, anguished spirits flying about, etc.)? I have a sense that the weird aspects stem from ancient Roman Catholic teachings regarding restless spirits of the dead that failed to be rescued from mythical purgatory (due in part to the refusal/failure of their surviving kin to “pay the piper,” the coffers of Rome) and rose from their graves on the eve of this observance to make known their anguish.
We used to have a retired pastor who would do a skit every Reformation Sunday. He dressed up in a costume similar to what Martin Luther wore in his day along with a triangular hat. He used a cane anyway, so it seemed like an aged monk.