This time of year, we often think about the departed. We like to remember and honor our deceased by gathering, enjoying each other’s company and sharing photos and stories.
Families in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints fast and pray the first Sunday of the month (this November on All Saints’ Day) thanking Heavenly Father for His goodness and asking for special help in needed areas. We donate the monetary equivalent of 2 meals or more, to help the needy.
The night before was Hallowe’en or All Hallows’ Eve. Despite the occasional drizzle, we had a record number of trick-or-treaters. Our Hallowe’en celebration includes the fun of dressing up, trick-or-treating and enjoying celebrations passed down through the years.
In France and Germany, families honor their deceased by cleaning cemeteries, placing flower and hosting family dinners, with games and stories.
Jewish families have Sukkot, a fall holiday celebrating God’s goodness and protection in the wilderness of the Exodus. Prayers of gratitude, games, family stories and heritage are shared while traditional meals are served outdoors in the evening in a hand-built sukkah or Tabernacle.
Latter-day Saints also gather around Sukkot for our General Conference, following the traditions of ancient Israel. In the Spring around Passover we also gather.
Many scholars believe that America’s Thanksgiving later in November is based on Israel’s Sukkot.
However you celebrate the blessings of autumn, the grace of God and the wonder of families, you are linking yourself to generations that go back over 3,000 years. Our rich heritage is a blessing.
We also do a heritage Hallowe’en or literary-themed one. The above feast represents our Scottish ancestors. The following one is a nod to Alice in Wonderland.
