Satanist leader's attempt to hold 'Black Mass' inside Kansas Statehouse sparks chaos and arrests

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) -- A leader of a small group of self-proclaimed satanists and another individual were arrested following a confrontation at the Kansas Statehouse. The incident occurred when Michael Stewart, president of the Kansas City-area Satanic Grotto, attempted to conduct a "Black Mass" ceremony in the rotunda amidst rising tensions with Christian counterprotesters.

About 30 members of the Satanic Grotto rallied outside the Statehouse to advocate for the separation of church and state, while challenging what they perceived as the state's preferential treatment towards Christians in allowing religious events inside. In response to pressure from Catholic groups who condemned the planned ceremony, Gov. Laura Kelly issued a temporary ban on protests within the building for that day.

The Grotto's outdoor demonstration attracted hundreds of counterprotesters, including around 100 Christians who confronted the group and engaged in vocal conflict. Some counterprotesters attempted to sway Grotto members to embrace Christianity, while others echoed sentiments from prominent church figures condemning the scheduled event as "anti-Catholic bigotry." The atmosphere grew increasingly hostile as both sides exchanged chants and songs.

As Stewart attempted to initiate the Black Mass, a scuffle broke out with a young man, Marcus Schroeder, trying to seize Stewart's script. The confrontation resulted in multiple arrests, including that of Stewart, who was charged with disorderly conduct. He later claimed the group's demonstration was a rightful exercise of their First Amendment rights in stark contrast to the privileges extended to Christian groups.

Witnesses reported chaos during the incident, with a woman named Karla Delgado trying to intervene, citing Stewart's violation of the governor's order. During the commotion, her young daughter was knocked to the ground, highlighting the tensions surrounding the protest. Despite the upheaval, Stewart indicated a desire to return for future demonstrations, suggesting the possibility of organizing "un-baptisms" at the Capitol next year.