Church event offers alternative to trick or treat

YOUNGSTOWN — Ghouls, goblins and ghosts, oh my! The season may bewitch some, but some follow their religious beliefs down another path.

For many, Halloween hauntings and happenings are just the ticket. For others, the Hallelujah Night Wednesday at Rising Star Baptist Church, 2943 Wardle Ave., was the way to go.

The annual event, held for more than 20 years at the church, provides an alternative to trick or treating and Halloween parties. But the event was just as much fun — with carnival games of darts, bean bag toss and balloon pop — along with basketball, bowling and bounce-around.

“We just don’t follow that custom,” said Millicent King, a youth coordinator at the church, referring to practices associated with Halloween. “It doesn’t fit with our religious beliefs ... witches, ghosts and goblins.”

King also cited safety as another reason: “It’s a safer environment for children. They’re not exposed to what could be a hurtful or dangerous situation.”

Many families agree, as the event attracts some 100 children from the congregation and community.

For more, see Thursday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com