Church of Satan Continues to Cause Controversy  

The Church of Satan is one of the most controversial organizations in the American religious community. But one should remember that it is a legitimate organization – and it is surprisingly organized. Some claim that it is simply a front for atheists who want to make a point. Others seem to be legitimate Satanists who follow various Satanic rituals. Whatever the case may be, the Temple of Satan continues to cause controversies throughout the United States. 

English Churchgoers Claim Church of Satan is Attacking Them

For years, residents of Lyndhurst in Hampshire, England, have been reporting various threats and attacks against their local church. Residents have complained of dead cats, severed deer heads, inverted crosses, and “666” graffiti found near their churches. Police are looking into these incidents, but they have not made any arrests. 

Some believe that local Satanists are to blame. The area of “New Forest” is known for its connection to Wicca. The pagan religion is associated with witchcraft, and some believe that it is also related to Satanism. At least one former satanist in the area claims that these dead animals are meant to confuse and demoralize Christians. This individual has warned local Christians not to become too obsessed with Satanism – as this is exactly what the perpetrators want to achieve. Others – including representatives of the local police – believe these incidents are pranks pulled by non-Satanic individuals. 

Satanic Temple Plans to Participate in Iowa’s Proposed School Chaplain Program

In the United States, Iowa is attempting to move ahead with its school chaplain program. This program would allow Christian chaplains to offer various services to state schools. At face value, this would seem to breach the separation of state and religion. Some argue it also violates the Constitution. Supporters say that school chaplains would improve safety for students, giving them a chance to discuss their issues with religious individuals. 

The Satanic Temple has immediately seized upon this opportunity, promising to offer its own Satanic chaplains to school districts across the state. This is a typical strategy associated with satanic organizations in the United States, and it raises questions regarding preferential treatment toward specific religions. 

A representative of the Satanic Temple in Iowa explained:

“Just over one year ago I gave public comment on a similar bill informing the Iowa House that, although I oppose the bill, I was excited about the opportunities they provided for the Satanic Temple. My feelings have not changed. I would like to remind you all that if this bill passes, highly qualified Satanic Temple ministers are ready and available to serve as chaplains in public schools.”

It is important to remember that although this proposed law would allow chaplains at state schools, it does not require any school to participate in the program. At least one lawmaker believes that not a single school board in the entire state will approve school chaplains. In other words, the entire debate might be a moot point. 

he Universal Life Church Respects Diverse Faith Backgrounds

The Universal Life Church (ULC) respects people from all different faith backgrounds. Although the Church of Satan has supporters and detractors, we encourage everyone to strive to do that which is right and respect diverse points of view. To learn more about the Universal Life Church, do not hesitate to reach out.