DECATUR - Braden Polley, 10, decided to dress as a ninja for Halloween.

He was among the other children who flooded the parking lot outside First Congregational United Church of Christ on Wednesday evening during Trunk or Treat.

Children collected goodies from each car that was decorated in the Halloween tradition of glowing jack-o'-lanterns, skeletons and cobwebs hanging from the back trunks.

Some adults, dressed as witches, Mario and Luigi from the Nintendo video game and Jason with his hockey mask from "Friday the 13th" movie fame, had just as much fun handing out the treats.

But, no, the churches have not gone over to the dark side.

Pastors generally agree that the ancient Celtic festival of "All Hallows Eve," during which spirits are believed to return from the dead, should be celebrated in a fun and positive way.

"We're doing it for the kids to enjoy and have a safe environment. When I was growing up, I could walk the streets (for Halloween) and feel safe," said the Rev. Dave Taylor from First Congregational United Church of Christ.

He added, "On Nov. 1, we celebrate All Saints Day in remembering those of the past and how we are to be saints in the future for Christ. So there is a stronger meaning to what the holiday is associated with."

Heartland Community Church is having its Harvest Fest event, including a trunk or treat Saturday.

"I think we do it because the kids are already out, and it's better that they are in a Christian environment," said the Rev. Joe Bowman, senior pastor at Heartland.

Bowman said that every day, the churches are battling the forces of evil.

"Having a harvest fest on Halloween also lets us make a greater impact on a number of people, therefore, engaging our culture in a greater cause for Christ."

At Mount Zion Presbyterian Church, the Rev. Joel Stevenor said the church will celebrate All Saints Day on Sunday. He started trunk or treat four years ago.

"What we do is an alternative and provide children with something to do and getting them off the streets; it's not about scary ghosts and goblins," Stevenor said.

A group of young First Congregational members came together as the Holy Ghostz, dressed in scary wigs and ghastly makeup. They won awards for overall makeup, costume and enthusiasm, a big part of the holiday hoopla.

sheilas@herald-review.com|421-7963