Residents are expressing shock and dismay following the installation of a public display by The Satanic Temple in Iowa’s state Capitol building. Described by a local as a “very dark, evil force,” the satanic altar has been positioned near the Christmas tree in the publicly funded structure. Created by The Satanic Temple, the official organization of satanism, the display features a ram’s head adorned with mirrors and supported by a mannequin dressed in red clothing, as reported by KCCI Des Moines. Co-founder Lucien Greaves emphasized the group’s assertion of “religious freedom” through this representation.
“We’re going to really relish the opportunity to be represented in a public forum,” Greaves said.
“We don’t have a church on every street corner.
“My feeling is if people don’t like our display in public forums, they don’t have to engage with them.
“They don’t have to view them,” Greaves added.
Iowa resident Shellie Flockhart said she was shocked to see the display.
“It’s a very dark, evil force,” Flockhart said.
“I truly hope people know how to battle that.”
In reaction to this, Flockhart organized a prayer gathering on Wednesday at the Christmas tree situated within the Iowa Capitol building.
“I hope that people realize spiritual warfare is real.
“That there are evil satanic forces that are trying to infiltrate our state,” Flockhart said.
Greaves stated that the exhibit will stay in place for 14 days.
Republican State Rep. John Dunwell expressed his concerns about the satanic display, demanding answers.
Dunwell posted on Twitter that, “as a follower of Christ, I certainly find a display from the Satanic Temple objectionable.”
“It stands in direct opposition to my faith and would be classified as evil.”
“Oppose the message of the display,” the lawmaker urged.
“It is not just another way to worship the same God.
“There are DIFFERENCES that need to be pointed out.
“The display glorifies the evil influence we oppose.”
Nevertheless, Dunwell asserted that “many other religions or non-religious people have the same perspective about Christianity.”
He also indicated that the satanic exhibit might be considered free speech protected by the “First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.”
As many of you have become aware, last week a display was erected at the Iowa Capitol by the Satanic Temple of Iowa. As I have responded to concerns from Iowans about the display, I wanted to share with you how the display came to be and my response.
How did it happen?
• The… pic.twitter.com/8ODJXCxu9Y— Rep. Jon Dunwell (@jdunwell) December 8, 2023
