Every year on October 31st, more than 70 million children in the United States take to the streets, dressed in costumes and knocking on doors. For most, it’s about candy, fun, and memories with friends. But for the church, this single night represents one of the greatest opportunities of the year to share the hope of Christ.
The Biggest Night of the Year
On Halloween, families you may never otherwise meet come right to your door—or gather at your church parking lot for Trunk-or-Treat. It’s the one time in our culture when strangers welcome children and parents to their homes or church events. That’s a divine appointment if we’re willing to see it that way.
While culture calls it “trick-or-treat,” for believers it can be so much more. We can turn this annual tradition into an eternal opportunity by planting seeds of the Gospel in young hearts.
Why It Matters
Kids remember more than candy. Candy is gone in a week, but a creative Gospel message or Scripture verse can stay with a child for years.
Parents are watching. Every parent inspects what goes into their child’s bag. When they see something uplifting, Christ-centered, and thoughtful, it speaks to them too.
The harvest is at your doorstep. Instead of waiting for families to come to church, you can meet them right where they are—literally at your front door.
How to Share the Gospel on Halloween
Use Gospel Tracts Designed for Kids – Interactive tracts (like the origami-style Memory Cross cards) stand out among the candy. They’re fun, engaging, and simple to understand.
Pair with Candy – Don’t skimp on the sweets. A full-size candy bar plus a Gospel card makes a lasting impression.
Host a Trunk-or-Treat – Invite your community to your church parking lot. Decorate trunks, hand out treats, and provide fun activities while sharing the message of Christ.
Pray for Every Child – As you prepare, pray for the kids who will receive what you hand out. Ask God to open their hearts.
Follow Up – If hosting an event, invite families back for Sunday worship or a family night. Make it easy for them to take the next step.
From Treat Bags to Eternal Impact
Think about it—Halloween may be the only time all year when unchurched families will accept something from you with no questions asked. That bag of candy could carry more than sugar; it could carry the message of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
As believers, we’re not called to retreat from culture but to redeem opportunities like this one. Let’s move beyond just handing out candy and instead plant seeds that God can use for eternity.
This October 31st, don’t just turn on the porch light—shine the light of Christ.
