On a wet and windy Oct. 31, 2009, the Springfield (Ore.) Church social committee invited children from the community to enjoy an evening of fellowship and blessing at the church. Marian Pielaette, Bonnie Gladden, Stephanie Eric, Beth and Don Whitsell, social committee members, organized the autumn celebration, inviting families to a safe and fun Halloween alternative. Though the wind and rain pounded outside, the inside was full of games, food and goodie bags.
"We decided we would bring the kids here instead of taking them out trick or treating," says one parent. "It's a lot more wholesome playing games and being with friends than just going around asking for candy."
"I think it was a great idea to bring our candy or toys that we were going to give out to trick or treaters and bring them here to put in the harvest party goody bags," remarks a grandmother who attended the event.
Ruth came as Ruth of the Bible. Queen Esther brought her public school friend who looked like a princess. Ponies with their cowgirls, and Roman soldiers raced about capturing the goodies that flew from the piñata. Dorothy could be seen skipping about in her red shoes, and a furry little bear was seen munching happily on cookies. Smiles, laughter and chatter filled the hall as children pranced about in their make-believe costumes.
