In this conversation, Alex Portillo, Nate Hellman, and Dr. Seth Pierce explore the complex relationship between Halloween and Christianity, delving into the historical context of the Satanic Panic, the evolution of Halloween traditions, and the cultural implications of fear and monsters in Christian narratives. They discuss personal experiences with spiritual warfare, the significance of testimonies, and provide insights on how Christians can engage with Halloween in a thoughtful and informed manner.

Guests in this episode:

• Dr. Seth Pierce — Find him on Instagram and TikTok @professorpierce. He also writes on Substack at Infodemonology and hosts the Beast and Bible Podcast.

• Nate Hellman — Connect with him on Instagram and TikTok @nate.hellman. He co-hosts The Imperfect Pastor Podcast.

Links: www. sanberto.com/links

Donate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

05:32 Is Halloween Satan's Birthday?

14:12 The Role of Testimonies in Shaping Beliefs

23:11 Monsters, Identity, and the Christian Experience

25:49 The Origins of Halloween and Trick-or-Treating

31:22 Cultural Syncretism and Halloween's Evolution

39:46 Are Jack O' Lanterns Demonic Portals?

45:15 The Loaded Question Fallacy

47:36 How Should Christians Engage with Halloween

55:12 Fear and Its Role in Christian Messaging

What does it actually mean to walk in the light? In this episode, Alex unpacks a powerful passage from 1 John 1:5–10 and explores how living in the light goes beyond believing the right things or striving for righteousness. It’s about something far more vulnerable—and freeing.

If you’ve ever wrestled with hidden struggles, questions about confession, or wondered how honesty shapes real Christian community, this teaching will challenge and encourage you.

Links: www. sanberto.com/links

Donate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto

Slides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/rqv59erkid32fkj3o1jrz/Walking-in-the-Light.pdf?rlkey=mlfkjpf8ywofpjy5dq81dupuf&st=qr3pkl4i&dl=0

We’ve all asked questions that don’t have easy answers. In times of loss, disappointment, or silence from God, we often wonder, “Why?” But sometimes, the most important truth isn’t found in explanations.

Jesus reminds us in Matthew 10:29–30: “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” This verse paints a picture of a God who pays attention to the smallest details of our lives and who offers comfort even in our darkest seasons.

In this episode, Alex reflects on what it really means to experience God’s presence when life doesn’t make sense.

NOTE: This homily was delivered as a word of encouragement for a memorial service.

Links: www. sanberto.com/links

Donate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto

Slides: N/A