All Hallows' Eve (aka Hallowe'en), a liturgical event in the Christian calendar observed on 31st October, used to be a simple act of respectful remembrance for the departed. I can remember in my own childhood the custom of burning a candle in a window on that night of the year, a light in the darkness for lost souls, or maybe a charm to ward off wandering spirits? I never really understood which and I never pressed the issue with my devout parents.
