Charisa Bossinakis
The Satanic Temple of Illinois has set up its Christmas display next to a nativity scene to commemorate the group’s ‘satanic values’ at the state Capitol.
WICS reported that earlier this week, for the third year in a row, The Satanic Temple of Illinois installed their notorious display right next to the birth of Christ at the rotunda.
The installation shows the deity ‘Baphomet’ as a baby resting in its crib.
The group said the emblem stands for ‘plurality, unity, compassion and empathy’.
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They wrote on Instagram: "Our baby Baphomet traveled from Salem to Springfield, IL to be alongside other religious displays at the State Capitol to represent plurality, unity, compassion and empathy.
"Can’t wait to have you back home little one!"
Well, we can’t see baby Jesus and Baphomet becoming pals at playgroup any time soon.
According to the Chicago Tribune, as per Fox News, while kicking off the festivities at the Capitol, Satanic Temple of Illinois Minister Adam told his loyal followers: "Let us stand now, unbowed and unfettered by arcane doctrines born of fearful minds.
"Let us demand that individuals be judged for their concrete actions, not their fealty to arbitrary social norms. ... Let us stand firm against any and all arbitrary authority that threatens personal sovereignty."
WICS reported that the minister said that as the Capitol welcomes 'diverse range of religions' every year, the group never misses an opportunity to spread its message.
However, many didn’t take too kindly to the display, as Catholic protesters gathered around with posters that read, 'Satan has no rights' and 'Mary crushes the serpent'.
Bishop Thomas Paprocki added there was no place for Satanic displays at the Capitol, according to the outlet.
Earlier this month, The Satanic Temple of Illinois also placed its 'Snaketivity' display at the statehouse in Springfield right next to the Christmas tree and menorah, as per NBC News.
The statue, designed by the group, shows a hand holding an apple with a snake wrapped around it, depicting when Eve succumbed to temptation by the Devil himself.
The group even launched a GoFundMe page to raise costs for construction, transport and installation.
They also teased on their Instagram, according to NBC News, they were 'bringing a message to the Illinois state capital that religious freedom means freedom of representation for ALL religions... not just the ones that don't offend Christians.'