Ohio pastor apologizes for Halloween pamphlets

HILLSBORO, Ohio (AP) — A southwest Ohio pastor has apologized for giving trick-or-treaters comic-book style pamphlets about fearing God.

The Hillsboro Times-Gazette reports that at least one parent had complained about a pamphlet titled “Mean Momma” in which three children die, one by hanging himself.

The Rev. Kenny Cousar of the Northview Baptist Church says his church was careless and he “deeply apologizes.” He says the pamphlet was inappropriate for small children, and that his church doesn’t preach such “scare tactics.”

He says the church annually gives out religious tracts for Halloween; usually getting a good response.

The church’s Facebook page indicates 2,200 pamphlets were given out by church members to trick-or-treaters.

Parent C.J. Rooks says she was shocked when she saw what her 3- and 4-year-old children were given last Thursday night.