The Catholic Talk Show

Exorcising Halloween w/ Charles Fraune

Oct 28, 2025
Charles Fraune, author and founder of Slaying Dragons Press, dives deep into the origins of Halloween, emphasizing its roots in Christian feasts and spirituality. He argues that modern Halloween has become a missed opportunity for Catholics. The discussion highlights reclaiming Halloween with traditions like making soul cakes and visiting cemeteries to teach children about the dead. Fraune shares the importance of community practices, reversing misconceptions about death, and inspiring Catholic artists to bring meaningful faith into Halloween celebrations.
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INSIGHT

Modern Occult Is Mostly Reinvention

  • Much of modern occultism is a Victorian-era reconstruction, not authentic ancient druidism.
  • Charles cites scholarship that modern pagan practices are largely fabricated 'fan fiction' of ancient rites.
ADVICE

Don't Let Fear Drive Your Response

  • Don't be paralyzed by fear about witches or curses; focus on faith and charity instead.
  • Exorcists interviewed told Charles that witches tend to practice privately, not to hunt neighborhoods.
INSIGHT

All Souls Linked To Charity

  • Older Catholic customs (empty plate, giving to the poor) tied All Souls to concrete acts of charity.
  • Charles urges reviving such practices like donating food or setting a plate for deceased family members.
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