October 31—A Great Day to Celebrate?

Did you know that October 31 is a significant date in Christian history? It was on October 31, 1517, that Martin Luther nailed his famous 95 Theses on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, beginning the movement that rescued the gospel from the darkness of medieval traditions. Rather than celebrate a secular holiday with pagan roots this year, why not consider celebrating the Reformation with your church or family?

Many churches and families celebrate Reformation Day. Activities can include dressing up in Reformation period costumes, watching a video on the life of one of the Reformers, performing a skit, reading selections from Luther, playing “Pin the Theses on the Door,” sharing a medieval meal by candlelight, giving thanks and praying for God’s church and its leadership today, burning indulgences, learning about the five solas of the Reformation, and singing Luther’s hymn “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.”

Another idea for this day might be a harvest party to celebrate God’s goodness in providing the abundance of food that we enjoy. Hay rides, costumes, and games can make this a fun alternative celebration.

The gospel can transform every area of our lives, even our holiday traditions.