Gift suppliers aim to prepare stores with ministry resources ahead of the trick-or-treat season.

Children’s expert and best-selling author Mary Manz Simon thinks it wise for Christian retail stores to plan ahead for this season that has grown in popularity among the general population. 

“Halloween has catapulted to become the second-largest retail season of the year,” she said. “But while Christmas, the largest buying season, offers built-in opportunities to share the gospel, we need to look for ways to direct attention to the gospel message during autumn.”

Universal Designs has released new designs of its trick-or-treat Bible Basics bookmarks and Pass-It-On cards.

The Central Florida-based company is making available a free counter merchandiser in its Pass-It-On package, which includes 50 Pass-It-On cards each of six designs, available to stores at $22.50. A free counter merchandiser is also available in the larger Multi-Product Package for $58.82. It includes 50 Pass-It-Ons each of six designs plus nine each of three Bible Basics bookmarks.

Fenton, Mo.-based Christian Tools of Affirmation (CTA) has introduced a variety of fall favorites: the G.L.O.W. (God Lights Our World) line, including a flying disc, cross necklace and plastic tumbler; The Pumpkin Prayer line featuring a plastic tumbler, activity bookmark with stickers, roll of 36 stickers and build-a-story activity magnet; several owl-themed items such as the Who Loves You silicone bracelet with card and the Who Loves You foam craft kit; and products bearing the acronym S.H.I.N.E., which stands for Share His Incredible News Everywhere. 

Simon—author of a board book titled The Pumpkin Gospel (Standard Publishing)—suggests that stores actively partner with churches for this fall ministry. 

“Churches have embraced the concept of fall festivals, opening the opportunity for retailers to provide book tables with Christ-centered product,” she said. “In addition, retailers can capitalize on the ‘trunk or treat’ events hosted by congregations throughout the country. Consumers actively seek inexpensive items to offer the ‘non-trick-or-treaters’ who stop by the open vehicle trunks parked in church lots. Now is the time for retailers to contact local churches to inquire about partnership opportunities. CBA retailers, not only churches, can host events that help children see that they can glow with God’s light from within.”

CTA provides a free Fall Festival Planning Manual for community outreach events, available at http://www.ctainc.com/Free_Resource_Index_Page.asp.

To reach Universal Designs, call 888-219-4231 or visit www.universaldesignsinc.com. To order from CTA, call 888-669-1282 or for more information, visit http://trade.CTAinc.com.