Satanic Temple isn’t spooking folks in Salem
Witch City gives Puritan past the broom as activists reopen doors
Salem’s Satanic Temple is reopening its doors to the public Monday and showcasing its controversial 8-foot bronze statue of Baphomet, a satanic figure, that has outraged people in Arkansas.
The temple, a nontheistic religious and political activist group that supports freedom and the separation of church and state, has been under fire in Little Rock, where a statue of the Ten Commandments was approved to be placed on the Arkansas State Capitol’s grounds.
In response, the Satanic Temple filed a suit to place their own statue of Baphomet, a goatheaded satanic figure, arguing that all religions should be represented and to protest how they say Christianity permeates American government. The statue was unveiled last month.
In Salem, however, where the group is based and has recently completed renovations, many people withheld criticism. Some argued that given the town’s history with persecutions of people accused of witchcraft in the 1600s, they have become more tolerant.
The group is known for opposing the equally controversial Westboro Baptist Church and supports Planned Parenthood.
“They are basically like an activist group,” said Rob Fitz, owner of the Magic Parlor. “As long as they are not hurting anyone. Their main thing is to promote and support the idea of the separation of church and state.
“Salem is a place where because of its history of intolerance, the reverse is happening,” Fitz said. “It’s a magnet for creepy, weird and paranormal stuff.”
Alexis Abare, 35, co-owner of VampFangs, agreed, saying Salem residents are “generally welcoming of everyone. We don’t choose who is OK and who is not.”
“It is the underlying philosophy that runs though this town,” added Benjamin Selecky, 38, coowner of VampFangs.
It’s also good for business, others added.
“I think it’s great,” said Paul Orr of Hex Old World Witchery. “Freedom of religion. It’s guaranteed even if I don’t agree with it, I’d still support it. Salem is very open not just to people of other religions but to gay, lesbians and transgender people. We’ve come far from our Puritan roots. I hope it continues.”
The Salem Art Gallery, located inside the temple, will feature the artwork of Rebecca Petrie called “Moon Magic,” which runs Monday through Dec. 21.
The temple will also hold its “Black Mass” ritual at the end of October, its so-called “Unbaptism” ritual that includes The Devil’s Dinner Party, a ritualbased fine dining experience hosted by the Satanic Chef, Adam Dodge, as well as yoga, ritual candle-making classes, lectures and movie nights.