Halloween, a holiday steeped in traditions that celebrate death, ghosts, and the supernatural, poses a unique challenge for many Adventist Christians. The Bible teaches that death is like sleep until Christ’s return. This belief held by Seventh-day Adventists clashes with Halloween’s themes of the undead and the afterlife. As a result, many Adventists opt to turn off their lights, avoid opening their doors, or even leave home to escape the festivities. But ignoring Halloween wasn’t enough for Roman Beresnev, Kingsbury church pastor in Queensbury, New York. He saw the potential for ministry.
Instead of treating Halloween as something to avoid, Beresnev viewed it as an opportunity to share Adventist beliefs about life, death, and salvation. His approach was simple yet powerful. Last year, he stocked up on candies and treats to hand out to trick-or-treaters—just like any other house in the neighborhood—but added something extra: booklets explaining what the Bible says happens after people die.
When the night arrived, Beresnev was ready. “Kids flocked to my home in costumes, expecting candy. But along with their sweets, they each received a booklet that shared a message of hope rooted in biblical truth,” said Beresnev. By the night’s end, 50 children had visited his home, leaving “not only with a bag of goodies but also with a small piece of literature that could plant seeds of faith and understanding.”
Beresnev’s efforts turned a cultural challenge into an opportunity for outreach. Rather than retreating from a holiday that conflicted with his beliefs, he used it to engage his community thoughtfully and positively. “The event sparked conversations and left a lasting impact on both the children and their families,” Beresnev said.
This creative approach to Halloween demonstrates that even traditions that may seem at odds with Christian beliefs can be transformed into moments for ministry. For Adventists, it is a reminder that the truth they hold dear about death can be shared with love and kindness, even on a night like Halloween.
