A talk on the history of Hallowe’en was given at St Michael’s and South Church in Dumfries recently.
Judith Hewitt, museums curator with Dumfries and Galloway Council entertained the audience with her slide presentation entitled A History of Hallowe’en – Pagan, Celtic, Christian?
With great skill, knowledge and detail, Judith gave an extremely insightful, thought provoking and detailed talk on the origins of Hallowe’en and its development in various incarnations throughout history from early Pagan, Celtic and then Christian times, not only in Dumfries but in all parts of Britain and around the world.
Suffice to say, even though no actual witches were present on the night, Judith held the audience spellbound with a fascinating presentation of facts, myths and mysteries surrounding Hallowe’en, All Hallows’ Eve or All Saints Day and its relevance to the church.
A free guided Graveyard Tour was supposed to take place before Judith’s talk, however, the wet weather forced this indoors where the church’s development officer, Fiona Lee expertly delivered the tour talk describing the fascinating history and stories concerning the many famous people interred in the graveyard. Hot chocolate was on hand to partake at the end.
Fiona, said: “The church is open to members and visitors all year round with Sunday services every week. The Wild Goose Festival, which recognises and celebrates renewal, revival, hope and God’s gifts going into this new season on earth has a symmetry with the real origins of Hallowe’en and so we felt it a wonderful opportunity to hear from Judith and also share our special place at St Michael’s and South Church.”
Further details of all events at the church can be seen at; www.stmichaelsdumfries.co.uk and Facebook.