What was souling?

Souling was a traditional practice in parts of England, particularly during the Middle Ages, where groups of children or beggars would go door-to-door on All Hallows' Eve (October 31) and All Saints' Day (November 1) to offer prayers for the dead in exchange for food, typically soul cakes. These soul cakes were small round pastries made with spices and currants, symbolizing the souls of the deceased. The practice was rooted in the belief that sharing food could help ease the suffering of souls in purgatory. Souling is considered a precursor to modern Halloween customs.