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

TOPEKA, Kan. -- A confrontation erupted at the Kansas Statehouse on Friday involving members of the Satanic Grotto and Christian counterprotesters, resulting in the arrest of group leader Michael Stewart. Stuart had attempted to hold a "Black Mass" ceremony in the rotunda, amidst a backdrop of protests advocating for separation of church and state.

The Satanic Grotto, comprised of approximately 30 members, gathered outside the Statehouse to oppose perceived favoritism towards Christians in state-sanctioned events. The rally drew hundreds of Christian counterprotesters, who opposed the group's satanic imagery and activities. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly had previously issued a temporary ban on protests inside the Statehouse following appeals from Catholic groups, who condemned the planned event as an act of anti-Catholic bigotry.

Tensions escalated when Stewart attempted to perform the Black Mass; a young counterprotester attempted to seize his script, leading to a physical altercation. Video footage shows Stewart punching the young man, resulting in his arrest by Kansas Highway Patrol troopers for disorderly conduct and unlawful assembly. Stewart was subsequently released on bond.

Amid the chaos, supporters of both sides voiced their perspectives. Stewart's wife defended his actions as an exercise of First Amendment rights, highlighting the ongoing debate around free speech and religion. On the opposing side, participants like Karla Delgado expressed concern about Stewart's violation of the governor's orders, claiming their children's safety was jeopardized in the fray.

While the protests sparked intense opposition, members of the Satanic Grotto maintained that their beliefs vary widely, ranging from atheism to using the group as a means of personal expression. Despite the tumultuous events, Stewart expressed an intention to return for potential future demonstrations, signaling that this clash of ideologies remains unresolved.