Growing up in a town where a church was faced with limitations on providing meals to the homeless, I can’t help but feel a sense of disappointment in the way some individuals prioritize bureaucracy over human compassion. The idea that feeding the hungry can be restricted or regulated is truly disheartening. When a church is trying to emulate the values of their faith by helping those in need, it should be commended, not hindered.
The fact that there were complaints about increasing meal services during the pandemic is beyond my comprehension. The thought of people complaining about others being fed truly highlights a lack of empathy and understanding within our society.… Continue reading
As a member of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, I recently experienced a deeply troubling incident that has left me questioning the true extent of religious freedom in certain parts of the world. During an official visit to Saudi Arabia, I, along with my colleague, Reverend Frederick Davie, were shocked when officials requested that I remove my kippah while at a site visit. This request, despite prior approval from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, left us with no choice but to cut short our trip. The irony of being asked to remove a religious symbol in a country that is supposed to be fostering change and progress under its 2030 Vision is not lost on me.… Continue reading
Being raised in a Muslim-majority country, I have witnessed firsthand the strict enforcement of religious customs and practices. However, even within that context, the idea of arresting individuals for not fasting during Ramadan seems extreme and unnecessary. Religion is meant to be a personal matter between an individual and their faith, not something that should be policed by the authorities. The recent reports coming out of Nigeria about the Islamic police arresting non-fasting Muslims during Ramadan is not only alarming but also a clear violation of human rights.
It is disheartening to see that people are being punished for simply eating in public during the holy month of Ramadan.… Continue reading
As I read the headline about the bill to ban displays of Satan in public property moving forward in the Senate, I couldn’t help but roll my eyes. It seems like yet another example of right-wing politicians disregarding the principles of the U.S. Constitution. In just 25 words, this bill manages to violate three separate clauses of the First Amendment. It’s truly impressive how they can be against the constitution while claiming to be its biggest defenders.
What strikes me as particularly amusing is the fact that the bill explicitly targets displays of Satan, rather than the broader Satanic Temple. It’s as if they have no idea that the Satanic Temple actually uses a statue of Baphomet as their symbol, not Satan himself.… Continue reading
Arizona GOP lawmakers are at it again, always finding new ways to waste time and taxpayers’ money with blatantly unconstitutional bills. The latest one on their agenda? Senate Bill 1279, also known as the Reject Escalating Satanism by Preserving Essential Core Traditions Act, or RESPECT. This bill aims to prohibit satanic displays on public property in Arizona, because apparently, the GOP is the arbiter of what is acceptable on public land.
Now, let me start by saying that I have no personal affiliation with the satanic community or any religious group for that matter. But what bothers me is the sheer audacity and hypocrisy of these lawmakers.… Continue reading
I recently came across an article that caught my attention. The headline read, “Suspect charged with hate crime for destroying Satanic Temple display at Iowa Capitol.” As I delved deeper into the details, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions ranging from frustration to satisfaction. The suspect, Michael Cassidy, a former congressional candidate, made statements indicating that he destroyed the display due to the victim’s religion. It’s ironic how he was taken down by his own words.
What intrigued me further was the fact that Cassidy had raised over $84,000 for his legal defense. It is baffling to witness the support he has garnered from nearly 2,000 individuals.… Continue reading
The After School Satan Club is making its return to Jane Addams Elementary School, much to the chagrin of some Christians. This club, offered as a nonreligious alternative to other religious clubs, is a testament to the importance of religious freedom in our society. It is a direct response to attempts by Christians to establish their clubs in elementary schools, proving that either religion should be kept out of schools altogether or all religions should have the opportunity to be represented.
It’s funny how the mention of the After School Satan Club elicits a childish response from many people. But let’s remember, we were all once children too, and we probably would have found humor in the name.… Continue reading
Man’s plan to bomb Satanic Temple is thwarted, MA cops say. ‘He walked in our midst’
It is truly alarming to witness the rise of terrorism in America. The recent news of a Michigan man planning to bomb The Satanic Temple headquarters in Salem, Massachusetts is a stark reminder of the dangers that lurk among us. Luke Isaac Terpstra, a 30-year-old resident of Grant, Michigan, was arrested on January 2nd for possession of bombs with unlawful intent. The bravery of his mother, who alerted law enforcement about Terpstra’s plans, cannot be overstated.
The Satanic Temple, known for its advocacy for freedom of religion and its unique approach to challenging religious bigotry, was unaware of the threat until after Terpstra’s arrest.… Continue reading
while in the same breath, be confirming this Handmaid’s Tale bitch under the silent acknowledgement that she is solely there to merge Government & Religion while resetting the bodily rights of women back 50 years.
This is what you get with nonsecular government. Religious fanatics and Fascists gaslighting the world and making us all feel bad that we would even think to test the most fundamental beliefs that will go on to effect every decision made by this LIFELONG appointment to SCOTUS.
Anyone who doesn’t see through this by now is exactly the type of sheep these false Shepherds love to take for all they’ve got.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood