Part 5/8:
With the spread of Christianity in the British Isles, the traditions surrounding Samhain evolved. The festival's name changed to All Hallows' Eve (Halloween), and the following days were designated as All Saints' and All Souls' Days. The cakes, previously offered to welcome spirits, transformed into soul cakes, which were distributed in exchange for prayers for the deceased.
During the Middle Ages, the practice known as "Souling" emerged. Poor individuals would knock on doors, reciting a song that pleaded for cakes in exchange for prayers. The cakes became symbolic, often marked with a cross as a form of charity.