CBCP Urges Holiness in Halloween, Undas 2025 Celebrations
The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) Emphasizes Holiness During Halloween and Undas 2025
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has issued a call for holiness and a proper celebration of Halloween, especially during the observance of Undas 2025. This message comes from the CBCP Office for the Causes of Saints, which released a statement on Tuesday, highlighting concerns over the increasing portrayal of evil elements such as devils and lost souls during Halloween.
In a circular letter, the CBCP Office for the Causes of Saints explained that Halloween is derived from an old English term meaning "holy evening" or the vigil for November 1, which marks All Saints' Day. However, the bishop emphasized that over time, people have lost sight of the original significance of this holy day. Instead of focusing on the celebration of saints, there has been a growing trend of promoting the idea of evil in society.
Laoag Bishop Renato Mayugba, chairman of the CBCP Office for the Causes of Saints, expressed his concern about this shift. He stated:
“It is unfortunate that over time, when people have lost an understanding of the original import of the Vespers of All Saints Day, that instead of preparing for the celebration of SAINTS, the presentation of evil—devils and lost souls—have been popularized by a very secular society.”
Mayugba urged the faithful to return to the true essence of the Vespers of All Saints Day, which should be an evening of prayer and remembrance of all saints, not one filled with ghosts and devils.
He clarified that saints are those who have been canonized by the Church, such as St. Lorenzo Ruiz and St. Pedro Calungsod, as well as those who have already been welcomed by God but known only to Him.
Instead of engaging in the promotion of evil imagery, Mayugba encouraged Catholics to focus on prayer, lighting candles, and offering Masses for their departed loved ones. He noted that candles serve as powerful reminders of Christ's victory over sin and death, echoing the symbolism of the Paschal Candle used during Easter.
From November 1 to 8, Mayugba urged Catholics to pray for the "poor souls in purgatory." He also mentioned that during these days, it is possible to apply plenary indulgences for deceased loved ones if they visit cemeteries or pray for them in parish churches.
“Praying for our beloved dead has been revealed as a most praiseworthy work of charity,” he added.
According to the CBCP, the Philippine Catholic Church is currently processing 22 candidates for sainthood. This reflects the ongoing efforts of the Church to recognize and honor individuals who have lived lives of exceptional faith and virtue.
In a segment on 24 Oras, Philippine studies professor Schedar Jocson provided insight into the origin of Undas. He explained that the term comes from the Filipinos' old habit of shortening words.
“Yung mga Pilipino noon, dahil hindi nakapag-aral ng wikang Kastila, pinaiikli na lang 'yung mga pahayag. Undas means Dia Delos Todos Santos, o ang ibig sabihin ay Day of All Saints.”
This explanation highlights how the Filipino language has evolved over time, incorporating elements from Spanish while maintaining its unique identity.
The CBCP’s call for a more meaningful celebration of Halloween and Undas underscores the importance of returning to the spiritual roots of these traditions. By focusing on prayer, remembrance, and acts of charity, Catholics can honor the memory of the saints and the departed in a way that aligns with their faith.
