Fort Gordon’s post-wide Protestant Sunday School, Protestant Women of the Chapel and the post chapel congregations are offering an alternative for children whose parents want to avoid trick-or-treating and some of the other traditional Halloween activities.

Many people have raised concerns over dangers associated with trick-or-treating and with the roots and influences of many customs and trappings associated with Halloween. This event is in response to those concerns.

Called “Hallelujah Night,” this event will be held 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Oct. 31 at Gym 5, on 26th Street between Barnes Avenue and Chamberlain Avenue. Parking will be available at Barnes Avenue Friendship Chapel and in the lot at B Street.

The date and time are intentionally set to coincide with usual trick-or-treating times. Parents, please understand that this is not a drop-in event. Children should arrive between 5:40 and 6:00, when the program begins, and plan to stay for all the activities. No one will be admitted after 6:15.

This event is for children from four through eleven years of age. Additionally, younger children are welcome to come and enjoy any of the activities their parents think are appropriate for them. Any children age six and under must be accompanied by an adult.

There is no charge. Generous gifts from the chapel congregations cover most of the expenses. However, each participant or Family is asked to contribute a big bag of candy. Of course, no one will be turned away – candy or no candy.

The “Hallelujah Night” will feature singing, candy, face painting, candy, carnival style games with biblical themes, candy, a craft activity, candy, food, and, you guessed it, lots of candy.

This year will also feature added emphasis on those biblical themes at most of the games. As much as possible, these themes and emphases will have a Christian biblical context. Children are encouraged to wear costumes, especially costumes of their favorite biblical characters or favorite American heroes. Please note, however, that no ghosts, goblins, demons, devils, witches or any scary or evil creatures will be allowed. Volunteers at the door will determine the suitability of each costume. Anyone in a costume deemed to be inappropriate will have to change before entering.

If you have questions, please call the Fort Gordon Religious Education Center at (706) 791-4703.