In this week's conversation between Dr. James Emery White and co-host Alexis Drye, they discuss the alarming rise in popularity of Satanism, and those who consider themselves to be part of the Satanic Temple. While the vast majority of members are essentially atheistic “believers” (meaning they do not actually worship Satan), Satan is still being upheld as a symbol of free expression and opposition to injustice among other things. You may be surprised to find out just how widespread this is….

Episode Links

In his latest book Hybrid Church: Rethinking the Church for a Post-Christian Digital Age, Dr. White writes about the transition from Christendom to “humandom” that has fueled the post-Christian world that we find ourselves in today. The idea that we don't need to answer to a higher power, but rather should allow reason to be our guide is what draws so many people to Satanism. Not only that, it's what draws them to cults, conspiracies, and even the world of the occult. Check out these past podcasts for more on these topics:

CCP64: On Cults and Conspiracy Theories

CCP58: On Your Horoscope and Starbucks

CCP35: On Scientology

CCP11: On Wicca

There are several stories that have been in the news of late related to this topic that were mentioned during today's conversation, particularly about the “SatanCon” gathering and the mess that Target has landed themselves in. Here are three recent articles to check out:

Camille Fine, “SatanCon: World's ‘Largest Gathering of Satanists' Hails Diversity, Fellowship,”
USA Today, May 3, 2023.

Abigail Anthony, “Target Partners with Satanist Brand to Create Items for ‘PRIDE' Collection,”
National Review, May 22, 2023.

Niha Masih and Jaclyn Peiser, “Target Pulls Some LGBT+ Items Days After CEO Talks Up Inclusivity,”
The Washington Post, May 24, 2023.

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