WITH reference to the letter printed in The Citizen (November 9) by J Ashton on the subject of Hallowe'en.

The idea that witchcraft and paganism is evil, is, I am afraid, a common ignorant attitude, usually given by people who know nothing of either subject.

As a Christian, I am sure you are aware of the fact that many of the religious festivals held by the church are in fact derived from pagan rituals. In fact the early Christians took the form of the cross from pagan tribes.

As for the history of Hallowe'en being shrouded in fear and evil, if one would read up on such matters one would find that Hallowe'en is in fact a time to remember loved ones who have passed on -- not very evil I feel.

Though if you want to know the true interpretation of evil, look into the history of your own religion. There you will find tales of massacre and burnings of innocent pagans who did not conform to the church.

This to me is much worse and far more evil than a Hallowe'en party.

Name and address supplied.