The Diocesan Commission for the Occult and Satanism has said the feast of Halloween – originally a pagan feast – was not compatible with Christian teachings.

The commission said the feast, which marked the beginning of winter, was also linked to superstition and spiritism and the occult in its wider context.

“For these reasons, and for those who want to take Christianity seriously, the commission believes it would be best that the feast of Halloween is not celebrated. Even if this is done in a neutral manner and without bad intentions, the feast is still linked to neo-pagan cultures.”

The commission, however, encouraged Christians to understand why Halloween was not compatible with Christian doctrine, and to celebrate All Saints Day and All Souls Day, on 1 and 2 November, respectively.